Support for community recovery after flood

A NEW program has been launched to support local recovery efforts after the devastating May 2025 floods.

Funded by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the program aims to strengthen the region’s ability to recover through community-led action, partnerships, practical support and the funding of a Community Recovery Officer at MidCoast Council.

MidCoast Council’s Director of Liveable Communities, Paul De Szell, said that while the scale of the May flood event was extraordinary and recovery will take years, the Reconstruction Authority funding will provide strong support for local solutions.

Part of the program includes supporting the MidCoast Community Resilience Network (CRN) – a growing alliance of community leaders, service providers, and volunteers working together to strengthen local resilience and recovery capacity.

A range of other initiatives include:

● Workshops and events to help communities access funding, prepare for future emergencies, and support wellbeing

● Mobilising volunteers to support farm and housing clean up and repairs, especially in more isolated areas

● Community-led activities that build social connection and long-term recovery

● Feedback and consultation processes to ensure recovery work reflects local needs

Mr De Szell said the program will be tailored to the needs of each community and will support locally driven recovery.

“This could be supporting a neighbourhood hosting a preparedness event, running a grant writing workshop, or simply connecting someone to the right service – recovery starts with connection and our program will provide that to communities in need,” he said.

Regular updates, event announcements, and resources will be available on the MidCoast Council website, where residents can also provide feedback and learn how to get involved in recovery efforts.

This project is supported by the Australian Government and NSW Government through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

To learn more, connect with Kristy Petersen, or find out how to get involved, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/recovery or email kristy.petersen@midcoast.nsw.gov.au.