Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has announced work is already underway to clear insured and uninsured properties across NSW following the recent bushfire crisis.
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"The NSW Government will coordinate the clean-up of residential and commercial properties destroyed by bush fires this season, at no cost to owners, so they can start rebuilding," Ms Cooke said.
"I have spent a lot of time over the last nearly four weeks working alongside volunteers in Tumut, and have seen firsthand the devastation caused by the Dunns Road Fires to communities like Adelong, Batlow and Tumbarumba.
"I have visited these communities and spent time with people who have lost absolutely everything.
"The clean-up that is needed is unimaginable unless you have seen it for yourself.
"I welcome this news from the NSW Government, as people and communities cannot begin to heal until the clean-up has been done safely and properly."
The work will include containment and removal of asbestos contaminated bush fire impacted materials, removal of all dangerous debris, including destroyed materials and hazardous trees and removal of concrete slab foundations.
"The NSW Government will shortly appoint major contractors to do the clean-up, who will be encouraged to engage local contractors wherever possible." Ms Cooke said.
"We need to support local employment opportunities, given so many local businesses face uncertain futures because of the extent of the damage caused by the bushfire crisis."
Deputy Premier John Barilaro has been named as the Minister responsible for Disaster Recovery.
"The threat of bush fire is far from over this summer, but we need to help people across the State to rebuild and recover as quickly as possible," Mr Barilaro said.
"Cleaning up eligible destroyed properties will ensure that these costs are not deducted from funds available under residents' insurance policies for rebuilding.
"For the uninsured, it's one less thing to worry about."
Clean-up arrangements coordinated by the NSW Government will include:
The appointment of contractors in the South and the North to clean-up bush fire impacted properties.
Costs for clean-up will be covered by the NSW Government in partnership with the Federal Government.
Where insurance companies have commenced clean-up works these will continue for safety reasons.
Impacted owners wanting their property cleared through this program need to call Service NSW on 13 77 88 to register their details and provide consent for access to their land.
Details regarding the appointed contractors and clearing of commercial properties will be announced shortly.
Further information is available at: www.service.nsw.gov.au
