Still no progress for Eugowra flood victims

Eugowra flood victims are still no closer to accessing the Resilient Homes program, almost nine months after devastating floods swept through the area.
Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud asked the Prime Minister in Parliament again whether federal and state governments would commit funding to the program, which allows flood victims to rebuild above flood levels, or sell their homes and move to another part of town.
Mr Littleproud said he asked the Prime Minister about the program in Parliament in June and today he still couldn’t commit, but said he would work towards an outcome.
“The Eugowra community deserves a solution but is sadly still not getting it,” Mr Littleproud said. “100 people remain in temporary housing and their situation needs urgent intervention.”
It comes after the New South Wales government also failed to announce funding for the area, despite both the NSW Minister for Emergency Services and the NSW Minister for Planning visiting the town this week.
Mr Littleproud added lack of funding meant there was lack of a plan, which was keeping struggling families in limbo.
Shadow Minister for Water and Emergency Management Senator Perin Davey said Labor Government’s actions didn’t match their rhetoric.
“Both the Minister and the Prime Minister are quick to say they will do everything to support the people of Eugowra but where is that support?” Senator Davey said.
“Where is the house buyback package like the one offered to residents of the Northern Rivers? Why hasn’t the Federal Government ensured the State start distributing the small and medium business support packages that we funded? These are legitimate questions that need answers.
“It is time the Government accepted that governing is more than photo opportunities and announcements.”