NSW agricultural processing businesses hit by last year’s devastating flood catastrophe can apply for a share of $22 million in government funds to re-establish operations.

Round 2 of the Supply Chain Support Program, a joint initiative by the state and federal governments, is now open for applications. 

Federal Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt says support is available to rebuild, repair and improve the resilience of eligible first receivers and processors, or harvesters of primary produce that operate within the fisheries, horticulture and agriculture sectors. 

“Round 1 of the Supply Chain Support Program has already helped to repair premises and support employers to keep their employees in jobs at multiple flood impacted operations across NSW, including dairies, distilleries and seafood suppliers,” Mr Watt said.

“Under Round 2, eligible businesses and co-operatives that experienced direct flood damage can apply for up to $2 million to support projects such as the replacement of damaged plant and machinery, for business and product diversification, or for transporting product from outside the area.

“Processing businesses and co-operatives indirectly impacted by floods through major supply chain disruptions can apply for up to $250,000.”

Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty says the program has delivered vital support in the form of building and roof repairs, replacement equipment and freight assistance.

“Reducing the impact of future natural disasters is essential to keeping specialised jobs and skills in regional areas and helping businesses to become more resilient.”

The floods which hit NSW and Queensland in February and March last year led to more than 240,000 insurance claims worth a record $5.98 billion.