SENATOR THE HON JENNY MCALLISTER
MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
MINISTER FOR CITIES
SENATOR FOR NEW SOUTH WALES
DAN REPACHOLI MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR HUNTER
THE HON JIHAD DIB MP
MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
4 December 2024
DISASTER SUPPORT FOR HUNTER AFTER EARTHQUAKE SWARM
Disaster assistance is now available in the Muswellbrook Local Government Area (LGA) following impacts of multiple earthquakes between 23 August 2024 and 12 November 2024.
The assistance measures are being provided by the Australian and NSW Governments through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The support includes assistance for Muswellbrook Shire Council to help with the costs of restoring damaged essential public assets.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the 4.7 magnitude earthquake caused damage to homes and businesses and left thousands without power.
“The Australian and NSW governments are fully committed to assisting the Muswellbrook community as they begin the recovery process following the disruption this challenging event has caused,” Minister McAllister said.
“The series of earthquakes across the region created disrupted communities and created anxiety across the region. While we are relieved nobody was injured, the assistance we’re jointly activating today will support works that will make infrastructure more resilient.”
NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the NSW Government is committed to helping the Council rebuild essential public assets after the swarm of earthquakes.
“The NSW Government, through the NSW Reconstruction Authority has been working closely with Muswellbrook Council on this Natural Disaster Declaration,” Minister Dib said.
“Disaster declarations like these are the crucial first step in unlocking assistance for Councils so they can get on with the job of repairing community buildings, schools, roads and bridges.”
Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi welcomed the announcement, saying it’s an important step toward recovery for the region.
“This is a challenging time for the Muswellbrook community, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact these earthquakes have had on homes, businesses, and infrastructure,” Mr. Repacholi said.
“This disaster assistance will go a long way to helping the community get back on its feet. I’m proud to see the Federal Labor and NSW Governments stepping up to provide this support.”
Mr. Repacholi also commended the resilience of the Muswellbrook community during this difficult time.
“Our community has shown incredible strength and determination. I encourage everyone impacted to access the available support and know that we are here to help every step of the way,” he said.
Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au.
