Young people are especially vulnerable to the indirect affects of natural disasters due to these events sometimes being their first exposure, their developmental stage and their increased likelihood of high levels of exposure to graphic content – particularly via social media. 
To find out how you can help visit Information for family and friends supporting young people affected by a natural disaster.

The Australian Government has developed two fact sheets to support children, students and their families as they return to school in 2020. 

The fact sheets lists the range of support that is available to help with the transition back to school and study.

The Back to School and Your Child's Welbeing Factsheet contains useful information and resources to support the mental health and wellbeing of children, students and their families.

Red Cross are providing an Injury Grant of $7,500 for people who have spent two days or more in hospital for physical injuries as well as mental health issues as a direct result of bushfires from July 2019.

For more information visit Red Cross' Australian Bushfires - How We're Using Funds.

For more information visit Department of NSW Health.

Topics include:

• Air Quality Index (AQI)
• Support services
• Beat the heat
• Protect yourself from bushfire smoke
• Illness and injury from bushfire
• Returning home safely
• Information for childcare centres and parents
• Medications and prescriptions

While members of the community are understandably keen to return to their properties and sift through fire-damaged material, they need to be aware of the associated health risks.

The Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District issued Public Health Advice for Bushfire-Affected Areas reminding residents and their families to take extra precautions when returning to homes and properties affected by bushfires.

Community members should not sift through fire-damaged material until it has been inspected and verified to be free of asbestos and other hazardous material.

Building and structures burnt in bushfires can leave potential health and safety hazards in the remaining rubble and ash.

Health risks include exposure to asbestos, ash from burnt-treated timbers, medicines, garden or farm chemicals, household chemicals and cleaning products, damaged gas bottles, metal and other residues from burnt household appliances as well as ash and dust.

Fibres can also become trapped on clothing and other items and transported off-site.

Licensed contractors from NSW Public Works are progressively working through fire-affected areas in the Shoalhaven as quickly as they can.

For more information on your property, call 1800 88 55 39.

For more information on property hazards following a bushfire visit SafeWork NSW.

Givit is endorsed by NSW government for donation of good and distribution via charity. 

Please donate funds online through the GIVIT Donate Funds website.

For more information on GIVIT, and specific goods needed, visit the GIVIT - Goods for a Good Cause website.

Apply for a Disaster Emergency Grant through the Red Cross Grants website.  

For more information visit the Red Cross website.

If you own a property impacted by the recent bushfires you may be eligible to have your Council rates waived or refunded by the NSW Government. 

When lodging a Council rates waiver or refund please take a a copy of your rates notice to a NSW Services Centre and complete a lodgement form.

Quarterly Account Waiver

Water Account holders who have a property that NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) determined as damaged or destroyed will have their 3rd Quarter, January to March account, water & sewer charges waived. Eligible customers will have information sent to them directly.

Water Usage Rebate

To assist with the cost of water used to prepare and protect property, a water usage rebate is available. Customers who were advised by the RFS that they should consider leaving or that is was too late to leave are eligible to apply.

The rebate value is the increase in water usage, calculated on the daily average consumption, compared to the same time last year.

Applications can be made online through the Shoalhaven Water Rebates and Offers web page.

Applications can also be made in writing, or in person, at the Nowra or Ulladulla Administration Offices.

Please note, rebates will be applied as credit on water accounts and are not refundable or transferable.

To find out more, please contact Shoalhaven Water’s Customer Service Team on 4429 3214 or by emailing water@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au.

Registration and licensing concessions and refunds are available if your vehicle or other relevant documentation has been lost, damaged or destroyed during the bushfires.

• Replacement cards (driver licences, NSW Photo Cards or Mobility Parking Scheme cards) will be issued for free. 
• NSW Photo Cards are posted to customers generally within 5 business days.
• Driver licence holders will receive a receipt which will act as a temporary licence for a period of 30 days until their photo card is received.

If you are facing financial difficulty as a result of the bushfires, you may be eligible for vouchers. The vouchers are equivalent to $25 per voucher for offset against water usage charges through the Payment Assistance Scheme.

To discuss your account and find out more information, contact Shoalhaven Water on 4429 3214 and select option 2.

For more information visit Shoalhaven Water's Payment Assistance web site.

If you are connected to the town water supply, you may be eligible for a $500 rainwater tank rebate for a newly purchased and installed tank.

To be eligible:

• obtain consent to install (from Council’s Development & Compliance team)
• the tank has a total capacity greater than 2000 litres
• the owner was not required to install a tank as part of their development consent (BASIX requirement introduced in 2004).
• one rebate per property.

Complete the online Rainwater Tank Rebate form available on Shoalhaven Water's website.

For more information visit the Shoalhaven Water Rain Water Tank Rebates website.

Local organisations in bushfire affected communities are invited to apply for grant funding for grassroots community activities aimed at strengthening social connections, emotional wellbeing, resilience and to assist communities to recover and heal.

Under the Supporting the Mental Health of Australians Affected by Bushfires measure, funding of up to $10,000 is available for small to medium community groups and organisations.

Building Angels is providing support to rebuild homes for those experiencing financial hardship. 

If you would like to offer your services you will be assisting Building Angel's charitable purpose and helping to rebuild not just a home, but the lives of those that have lost everything.  

The NSW Government has established a supplier list that coves all kinds of services.

The purpose of this database to connect buyers with regional suppliers and vice versa. It assists buyers to give first preference to an appropriate local supplier. Any information gathered that is not commercial-in-confidence will be publicly available on the ProcurePoint.

To register just answer a few simple online questions.

ICN Gateway also has an online database for Australian suppliers.For more information, including how to register, visit ICN Gateway.

Work will include:

• removal of known hazardous materials, including asbestos
• removal of materials destroyed by bushfire and hazardous trees
• with consent of building owners, removal of concrete slab foundations. 

Where insurance companies have commenced clean-up works, Government will cover the reasonable cost of work already underway or completed for eligible property owners. 

Government is covering the clean-up cost of NSW properties used for residential, small business or primary production purposes that were destroyed by bushfire after 1 July 2019.

This clean-up assistance is in addition to the small business and primary producer grants.

Definitions of a small business and primary producer used for bushfire grant applications also apply for this program. 

Clean-up costs for all large and corporate businesses will be met by owners or their insurer. Insurers can choose to opt-in to the clean-up program and reimburse Government for services. 

Laing O’Rourke will contact registered property owners to discuss damage and assess eligibility. Where insurance companies have already commenced clean-up works for eligible properties, Government will cover the reasonable cost of work already underway or completed. 

Government will pay the clean-up costs for outbuildings that are uninhabitable or unusable and are located within the vicinity of primary residences or business operations.

Individual site assessments will be required by trained and licensed contractors to determine safety requirements and eligibility. 

This program focuses on safety hazards and issues that could impede people rebuilding their homes.

Septic tanks are excluded unless they present a safety issue. 

Laing O’Rourke will start contacting registered property owners from early February 2020 to begin planning. 

We encourage owners of destroyed properties to register for the clean-up with Service NSW on 13 77 88 as soon as possible. 

We expect most residential properties will be substantially cleared by 30 June 2020. It may take longer to clean up isolated properties in remote areas and regions where there is still active fire. 

Safety is the number one priority and before any clearing work begins, we need to make sure that hazardous materials, such as asbestos are identified, contained and properly disposed of.

Clearing work will begin after properties have been made safe, and in certain situations this could mean ensuring all impacted properties in close proximity are made safe, to minimise the risk of clearing work accidentally spreading contamination from nearby locations. 

To opt-in, bushfire-impacted property owners must register online at Service NSW or call 13 77 88.

Once this is completed:

• Laing O’Rourke will contact registered property owners to discuss damage and assess eligibility
• Laing O’Rourke will meet the property owner on site once the area is declared safe
• The property owner will approve scope of works
• Clean-up of the property will commence
• Property owners will confirm completion of agreed scope of works.

Work will be undertaken simultaneously on the North Coast, South Coast, Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys and other impacted communities across the State. 

The following factors will be considered in determining which properties will be prioritised for clearing:  

• Properties where there is safe access to affected areas, including no ongoing fire events
• Properties with known hazardous materials, particularly those close to neighbours or vulnerable community facilities, e.g. schools, hospitals and town centres
• Where there is a strong community need and property owners have registered and given permission for works to be conducted on private property
• Availability of demolition contractors to conduct the works
• Availability of landfill for disposal of debris.

Due to occupational health and safety concerns, you will not be able to access the property during the clean-up process to remove items yourself. 

When Laing O’Rourke contacts you about accessing your property, they will discuss how you would like any personal items uncovered to be managed, as well as which structures you would like retained, and which removed. This will be documented in written property access agreements for your records. 

The Insurance Council of Australia has committed that insurers will maximise the funds available in their customers’ policies for rebuilding. 

Government will cover the full clean-up cost for insured and uninsured eligible property owners: that is properties that are used as residences, or for small business or primary production.

Given the significant volume of waste, a waste management plan has been developed for each of the regions. 

The waste management plan evaluates the capacity of existing local landfills and any need to construct new local waste management facilities, or transport waste to other facilities where there is not sufficient local capacity.

It is expected that about 60 per cent will go to landfill and 40 per cent of all waste volumes will be diverted from landfill and recycled.

Debris will be disposed of in licensed tipping sites across the state. All waste disposal will be overseen by the NSW Environment Protection Authority. 

The amount of materials being recycled will be a priority. 

Licensed contractors engaged in clean-up activities are subject to a compliance code for removing asbestos, which includes strict measures to control dust that may contain asbestos.

The Inquiry will consider and report to the Premier on:.

1. The causes of, and factors contributing to, the frequency, intensity, timing and location of, bushfires in NSW in the 2019-20 bushfire season, including consideration of any role of weather, drought, climate change, fuel loads and human activity.
   
   
2. The preparation and planning by agencies, government, other entities and the community for bushfires in NSW, including current laws, practices and strategies, and building standards and their application and effect.
   
   
3. Responses to bushfires, particularly measures to control the spread of the fires and to protect life, property and the environment, including:
   • immediate management, including the issuing of public warnings
   • resourcing, coordination and deployment
   • equipment and communication systems.
4. Any other matters that the inquiry deems appropriate in relation to bushfires.
   
   And to make recommendations arising from the Inquiry as considered appropriate, including on:
5. Preparation and planning for future bushfire threats and risks.
   
   
6. Land use planning and management and building standards, including appropriate clearing and other hazard reduction, zoning, and any appropriate use of indigenous practices.
   
   
7. Appropriate action to adapt to future bushfire risks to communities and ecosystems.
   
   
8. Emergency responses to bushfires, including overall human and capital resourcing.
   
   
9. Coordination and collaboration by the NSW Government with the Australian Government, other state and territory governments and local governments.
   
   
10. Safety of first responders.
    
    
11. Public communication and advice systems and strategies.

The deadline for submissions is 27 March 2020. This date will be extended for those directly impacted by the bushfires.

You can also provide your feedback by:

• Online: Make a Submission to the Bushfire Inquiry
• Email: inquiries@bushfireinquiry.nsw.gov.au
• Post: NSW Independent Bushfire Inquiry, GPO Box 5341, Sydney NSW 2001
• Phone: 13 77 88 (if you have limited computer or internet access)
• In-person: Service NSW Service Centre or a Mobile Service Centre.

Your response and feedback will help to inform the Inquiry's work. 

For more information visit Make a Submission to the Bushfire Inquiry and Inquiry's Terms of Reference. 

The NSW Government has established the Bushfire Housing Assistance Service to support people who are temporarily or permanently displaced as a result of the NSW bushfires.

The Service is available for all people across the state affected by the recent bushfires.

You can access this service by:

• calling the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line on 1800 018 444
• contact or visit your local Department of Communities and Justice Housing Office Find a Housing Office.

The NSW State Government is providing a range of services and programs to support people that have been affected by the bushfires. If you or anyone you know has been impacted by bushfires they may be eligible for financial assistance through one of these programs.

For more information about assistance contact the NSW  Disaster Welfare Assistance Team on 1800 018 444 or read this Fact Sheet. You can call the Southern Cross Housing Communities Assist Team on 02 4413 1102. Members of our team will assist you to find the support that is needed.  

If a Southern Cross Housing property is damaged by fire, please contact our 24 hour maintenance line on 1300 757885.

If you are unable to return to your home due to damage caused by fire, Southern Cross Housing can work with you to find suitable alternative accommodation until your home is repaired. Please call 02 4421 5145 during office hours, or for assistance after hours contact the Department of Communities and Justice Housing Contact Centre on 1800 422 322.

Ratepayers affected by the bushfire who are unable to pay their rates because of pending insurance claim payouts or other hardship circumstances may be able to pay outstanding rates and charges over an extended period.

Although, under the Local Government Act 1993 Council cannot waive rates, you may be eligible for a waiver or refund through the NSW Government.

If you own a property impacted by the recent bushfires you may be eligible to have your Council rates waived or refunded by the NSW Government. 

When lodging a Council rates waiver or refund please take a a copy of your rates notice to a NSW Services Centre and complete a lodgement form.

If you are unable to pay the Third Rates Instalment by the due date Council will waive any interest accrued until 30 June 2020. Flexible Payment Arrangements may also be available through our Hardship Policy..

If you are a pensioner whose property has been damaged or destroyed by the bushfires, your pensioner concession will continue until 30 June 2020.

To cancel you kerbside complete an online Bin Service Request. After the cancellation has been processed you will receive a letter advising that the rates adjustment has been made along with the amended instalment amounts.

Please contact Council's Rates Team on 4429 3210 during bussiness hours Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 9am and 5pm. Alternatively you may complete your change of address online.

Please contact Council's Rates Team on 4429 3210 during business hours Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 9am and 5pm.

Quarterly Account Waiver

Water Account holders who have a property that NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) determined as damaged or destroyed will have their 3rd Quarter, January to March account, water & sewer charges waived. Eligible customers will have information sent to them directly.

Water Usage Rebate

To assist with the cost of water used to prepare and protect property, a water usage rebate is available. Customers who were advised by the RFS that they should consider leaving or that is was too late to leave are eligible to apply.

The rebate value is the increase in water usage, calculated on the daily average consumption, compared to the same time last year.

Applications can be made online through the Shoalhaven Water Rebates and Offers web page.

Applications can also be made in writing, or in person, at the Nowra or Ulladulla Administration Offices.

Please note, rebates will be applied as credit on water accounts and are not refundable or transferable.

To find out more, please contact Shoalhaven Water’s Customer Service Team on 4429 3214 or by emailing water@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au.

For more information on waste services please visit Waste Services Availability - Bushfire Recovery. 

Shoalhaven farmers who have suffered fencing damage as a result of the Currowan bushfire can receive help to rebuild their fences with the assistance from the volunteer organisation Blaze Aid. 

Council have invited Blaze Aid to set up a basecamp at Milton Showground - 107 Croobyar Road, Milton and will use the area as their headquarters for the duration of the project. Blaze Aid work in disaster-affected areas for many months, not only helping individuals and families, but also helping to lift the spirits of local communities.

Milton Basecamp will be open for farmer registrations seeking assistance to help build fencing on their property from Saturday, 1st February. Farmers can visit Milton Basecamp in person to register or call Camp Co-Ordinator Patrick Berkery on 0487 923 455..

Volunteers are needed to help Blaze Aid perform the great work they do. Volunteers are needed for fencing and assisting at Milton Basecamp with kitchen assistance, administration, tool shed maintenance, camp maintenance and cleaning. 

Volunteer registrations will be accepted in person at Milton Showground basecamp - 107 Croobyar Road, Milton, from Saturday 1 February or by calling Camp Co-Ordinator Patrick Berkery on on 0414 710 165 from Monday, 3^rd February.

Donations of items that may assist with setting up camp and administration processes are also being sought, 

Your donations in helping Blaze Aid base camps to become established would greatly be appreciated by the Blaze Aid team and the local community.

if you can help please contact Blaze Aid directly by emailing admin@blazeaid.com.au or call 0418 530 471.

To take up this offer please contact the environment line on 1300 361 967 or email info@environment.nsw.gov.au with your details to be put in touch with your local NPWS Office.

You can also complete the Fencing Assistance Form and return it via email info@environment.nsw.gov.au or post to your local NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Office.

For further information visit Assistance for Fire Damaged Fences or contact your local NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Office.

The Government's National Bushfire Recovery Fund has announced a multi-faceted $76m tourism recovery package to encourage tourists to travel Australia, which includes:

Domestic - $20m for #HolidayHereThisYear a domestic marketing campaign encouraging Aussies to travel domestically in 2020. Headed by Tourism Australia, in collaboration with the states and territories.

Download the Toolkit and FAQs.

To find out more visit Holiday Here This Year and see the video which features Cupitt's and Bannisters. 

Regional - $10m for fire affected regions, to support around 10 projects up to $1m each. The aim is to create new attractions in fire affected areas and encourage visitors to return, while providing communities with a positive focus and an opportunity to strengthen identity.

International - Create urgency among key markets that Australia is open for business and support diplomatic network. $25m to encourage bookings direct to destinations, $9.5m to bring media and conduct famils and $5m for public diplomacy. 

Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) – $6.5m to get more businesses and buyers to ATE, Australia’s largest annual travel and tourism business-to-business event. Shoalhaven is attending this event in May. For more information visit ATE20.

Service NSW is working in collaboration with federal, state and local government to bring together all the support and services available to help small businesses get back on their feet.

Fore more information visit Service NSW - Support for bushfire-impacted businesses.

Visit Register for a small business bushfire recovery grant to find out if you're eligible.

The NSW Government is coordinating the clean-up of residences and businesses impacted by the NSW bushfires. This includes both insured and uninsured properties.

For more information and to register for help with your clean-up visit NSW Bushfire Clean-Up.

Yes. The Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $15,000 are available to small businesses and not-for-profit organisations in Local Government Areas affected by the NSW bushfires.

For more information, including how to apply, visit Disaster Recovery Grants.

The Primary Producer Assistance provides up to $15,000 in recovery grants, concessional loans and transport subsidies for eligible primary producers. 

For further information visit the NSW Rural Assistance Authority or call 1800 678 593.

Yes, The replacement of the following licences, permits and certificates destroyed or lost during the bushfires is free.

Fair Trading

• home building: contractor, qualified supervisor, tradesperson

• property and real estate

• motor vehicle dealer or repairers

• pawnbrokers and second-hand dealers

• tattoo parlour or tattooist

• owner-builder

• tow truck.

To apply for a replacement card  complete the Application for a Duplicate Licence, Certificate or Permit form. Make sure you note the reason for the card replacement is that it was lost in the bushfires. Also provide the home address if it is different to your nominated address.

Free Owner-Builder Permit where you opt to rebuild or repair your home damaged or destroyed by a bushfire (all other standard requirements and associated development approvals apply).

Safework NSW 

• white card

• high risk work licence

• explosives licence

• asbestos and demolition licence

• plant registrations.

For further assistance, visit your nearest Service NSW Centre or call 13 77 88.

Yes. The NSW Government has established a supplier list that coves all kinds of goods or services, including those that are not already available from government.

The purpose is to connect buyers with regional suppliers and vice versa to help buyers give first preference to a local supplier based in the same region.

Register now at eTendering.

Constructors wishing to register your interest in cleanup work, contact or register at constructionselection@finance.nsw.gov.au.

The Insurance Council of Australia have also created a Bushfire Trades Register where you can register your business.

Your business registration will help users to easily find your details and other trade businesses they need.

Register your business through the Insurance Council of Australia's Bushfire Trades Register.

The asbestos risk has been assessed and the property is safe regarding this. However, structural issues may exist and therefore Council does not recommend entering the property.

Engineering assessment is not a Council function. Those with insurance should contact their insurance companies who will be able to provide engineers to assess the structural integrity.

If you do not have insurance, contact Council. We may be able to refer you to Public Works who may provide some assistance. This however, will be dealt with on a case by case basis.

The NSW Government is coordinating the clean-up of residences and businesses impacted by the NSW bushfires. This includes both insured and uninsured properties.

For more information and to register for help with your clean-up visit NSW Bushfire Clean-Up.

Property owners can access their property file and house plans through Council at any time. Authorised representatives, with a signed authorisation from the property owner, may also access these files.

Council has waived all fees in relation to applications to rebuild buildings damaged in the recent bushfires.

If your building has approval (development consent) and you want to replace it with the same building that was approved, you will only need a Construction Certificate (building approval) that will require the new building to comply with current building standards.

If your building has approval (development consent) and you want to replace it with a building that is very similar to the previous building you will need a modification to the original development consent and a  Construction Certificate (building approval) that will require the new building to comply with current building standards.

If your building has approval (development consent) and you want to replace it with a building that is significantly different you will need a new development consent and a Construction Certificate (building approval) that will require the new building to comply with current building standards.

If your building was approved under older legislation (prior to 1980) or existed before planning provisions began in 1964 you will need a new development consent and a Construction Certificate (building approval) that will require the new building to comply with current building standards.

If you need a new development application you will need a new Basix Certificate

If you need a modification of an existing development approval that includes a Basix Certificate you will need a new Basix Certificate

The requirements of the current Planning for Bushfire Protection will apply to any new buildings in mapped bushfire prone areas and the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) will determine the specific requirements.

If you are not in a mapped bushfire prone area you are strongly encouraged to build to BAL 12.5 level.

Yes. You can lodge one application for all the buildings or separate applications if you would prefer to do so.

Contact Council’s Environmental Officers to arrange an inspection and to identify the quickest process for allowing the repairs to be carried out.

You may find that windblown ash, debris, dead animals or fire retardants have affected your rainwater tank.

If you haven’t already done so, disconnect the down pipes from your tank and run the first rainfall after the fire to waste if the roof has not been cleaned.

Clean your roof to remove ash and debris, if this can be done safely and remove any dead animals in the guttering.

Water testing is usually not necessary, as contamination is usually obvious by how it looks and smells. If the water is contaminated the tank should be drained, cleaned and refilled. Working inside a tank can be very dangerous. Professional tank cleaners are available in some areas or your local plumber may be able to provide this service.

Filters and other water treatment equipment could be affected by debris. Refer to the manuals for your equipment or seek advice from the supplier on responding to problems.

After drinking water has been captured or delivered, flush taps in the property to bring through the new clean water from the tank.

For more information visit NSW Department of Health Rainwater and Bushfires.

For additional advise, call the Environment Department, NSW Dept Health on 4221 6700.

Rainwater may be contaminated by debris, dead animals, fire retardants, or large amounts of ash.

The water may also be contaminated if:

•  the tank has been burnt by fire and/or the internal lining material is damaged

•  the plumbing to or from the tank is damaged

•  the water level has increased due to water bombing.

The presence of ash and debris in rainwater is unlikely to be a health risk but could affect the appearance and taste. Fire retardants currently used in Australia are of low toxicity but may also affect the appearance and taste of rainwater.

Foe more information visit NSW Department of Health Rainwater and Bushfires.

Rainwater can be disinfected by bringing the water to boil. A kettle with an automatic shut off switch can be used. Make sure the water is cool before drinking.

If you can't boil the water, unscented household bleach (containing 4% – 5% available chlorine) may be used. Add 4 drops of bleach to 1 litre of contaminated rainwater, mix well, and allow to stand for 30 minutes before use.

You should be able to smell the chlorine faintly 30 minutes after treating the water. If you can’t, you may need to add an additional similar amount of bleach.

Your tank water may be contaminated if your rainwater tastes, looks or smells unusual. If you are concerned use an alternative safe water supply, such as bottled water, should be used for drinking, preparing food or ice, cleaning teeth and be given to animals until your tank can be cleaned and refilled.

Depending on the degree of contamination, the rainwater may be suitable for toilet flushing, garden watering, washing clothes, firefighting or washing down surfaces. 

In an emergency, when no other drinking water is available, rainwater can be decontaminated by boiling or using household bleach (see below). This may not improve the appearance or taste of the water.

Using contaminated rainwater, with ash or other debris to fill swimming pools or in evaporative air conditioners, may clog filters and pumps. Contact the air conditioner, filter or pump manufacturer for advice.

For more information visit NSW Department of Health Rainwater and Bushfires.

No. This is not a service that Council provides.

This service may be provided by your local plumber.

If you choose to clean your tank yourself, please ensure you review the safety advice from NSW Department of Health Rainwater Tanks.

No. Council do not provide a refilling service.

If the water in your rainwater tank has been contaminated, please see above sections Can I use contaminated water? and How do I disinfect my rainwater?

Please call your local water carter to book in your next delivery and co-ordinate cleaning your tank.

If you have lodged an insurance claim, the cleaning costs need to be included in your claim.

Alternately, if you are uninsured, you may be eligible to claim financial assistance for the cost of repairing, cleaning or refilling your tank through the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment.

To lodge a claim, please call Department of Human Services on 180 22 66. Phone lines are open 8 am to 8 pm (local time) Monday to Friday and 8 am to 5 pm (local time) Saturday and Sunday.

For more information visit Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment.

Yes. If you are connected to the town water supply, you may be eligible for a $500 rainwater tank rebate for a newly purchased and installed tank.

To be eligible:

• obtain consent to install (from Council’s Development & Compliance team)
• the tank has a total capacity greater than 2000 litres
• the owner was not required to install a tank as part of their development consent (BASIX requirement introduced in 2004).
• one rebate per property.

Complete the online Rainwater Tank Rebate form available on Shoalhaven Water's website.

For more information visit the Shoalhaven Water Rain Water Tank Rebateswebsite.

Yes. Council waives the following fees and charges for eligible properties:

• Interest accruing on the rates installments issued after December 2019 until 30 June 2021
• Development Application
• Construction Certificate
• Complying Development Certificate
• Principal Certifier Inspections
• Final Occupation Certificates
• All Plumbing and Drainage inspection fees
• Section 68 applications under the Local Government Act, 1993
• Section 138 applications and inspections under the Local Government Act, 1993
• All archiving and associated administration fees (record search, document management, etc.)
• Bushfire Attack Level Certificates
• Advertising fees
• Replacement cost of reflective rural property number plate signs
• Retail food inspection fees for routine inspections scheduled before 30 June 2020
• Swimming pool inspection fees for routine inspections scheduled before 30 June 2020
• Caravan parks s68 applications (renewal to operate, installation applications, notice of completions)
• Notice under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act fees
• Tree removal application fees
• Green waste and spoiled food tipping fees until 30 January 2020

If you have been impacted by the fires and have immediate needs such as shelter, food or water, please visit and register at one of the following Disaster Welfare Assistance Points for assistance.

• Ulladulla Civic Centre, 81B Princes Highway, Ulladulla, Open 9am-4pm
• Shoalhaven Council Front Desk, 42 Bridge Road, Nowra, Open 9am-4pm

Commonwealth Government Disaster Recovery Payment is $1,000 per adult and $400 per child for people adversely affected by bushfires. 

For more information visit the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment website or call Human Services on 180 22 66.

NSW Government Disaster Relief Grants are available for eligible individuals and families whose homes and essential household contents have been damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster.

To be eligible for this grant you must:

• be a low-income earner and meet an income assets test
• demonstrate that the affected home is your principal place of residence
• not be covered by insurance
• demonstrate that the damage was caused by the disaster
• lodge the application within four months of the disaster occurring 

For more information visit Disaster Recovery Payment or call Human Services on 180 22 66.

Disaster Recovery Allowance is a short term payment to help you if a declared disaster directly affects your income.

It is payable for a maximum of 13 weeks from the date you lose income as a direct result of the NSW bushfires.

For more information about eligibility and how to claim visit Disaster Recovery Allowance or call Human Services 180 22 66.

The volunteer firefighter payment is for eligible volunteer firefighters who are self-employed or employed by small and medium businesses, and have lost income.

The NSW Government is administering the Australian Government's Volunteer Firefighters Financial Support Program, which is designed to help volunteer firefighters who have been called out for more than 10 days since 1 July 2019.

Payments of up to $300 per day, with a total cap of $6000, is available in the 2019–2020 financial year. The payments are tax-free and not means tested.

Registration and licensing concessions and refunds are available if your vehicle or other relevant documentation has been lost, damaged or destroyed during the bushfires.

• Replacement cards (driver licences, NSW Photo Cards or Mobility Parking Scheme cards) will be issued for free. 
• NSW Photo Cards are posted to customers generally within 5 business days.
• Driver licence holders will receive a receipt which will act as a temporary licence for a period of 30 days until their photo card is received.

A number of financial institutions are offering bushfire financial assistance programs to their customers. The aim is to offer immediate practical help to assist customers to manage the impact of natural disasters on their finances.

Financial assistance may include:

• assistance with temporary accommodation
• food and clothing
• deferred loan repayment arrangements
• deferred credit card repayments
• personal loans to purchase replacement goods at discounted interest rate and no establishment fees
• waived interest rate adjustments on term deposit withdrawals
• Disaster Relief Packages to support volunteer firefighters.

Assistance for business customers may include:

• loan restructuring without incurring the usual bank establishment fees
• affected business customers with merchant facilities may be eligible to receive monthly terminal access fee waivers

If you are insured: 

• Talk to your insurance company as soon as possible about how to make a claim. 
• Take photos or video of damage to your property and possessions as evidence for your claim. 
• If you have clearance from your insurer and evidence for your claim, you can start cleaning up. 

The Insurance Council of Australia can be contacted with any questions, complaints or concerns about insurance on 1800 734 621. 

Legal Aid NSW can provide free legal advice and assistance to people affected by disasters on a range of issues, including insurance. 

Call Legal Aid on 1800 801 529 or LawAccess NSW on 1300 888 529.

If you are uninsured: NSW Government Disaster Relief Grants are available for eligible individuals and families. 

To be eligible for this assistance you must:

• be a low-income earner and meet an income assets test 
• demonstrate that the affected home is your principal place of residence 
• not be covered by insurance  
• demonstrate that the damage was caused by the disaster 
• lodge the application within four months of the disaster occurring Disaster Welfare Assistance Line: 1800 018 444 (8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday).

It is a legal requirement that all bushfire hazard complaints are referred to the Rural Fire Service (RFS) investigation. 

Bushfire Hazard Complaints can be lodged on the NSW RFS website.

You can also write to NSW RFS at PO Box 372 Nowra 2541.

For more information visit NSW RFS website.

The NSW Rural Fire Service and NSW Police Force are committed to fighting bush fire arson. Bush fire arson is dangerous. It can destroy lives, properties and have long term effects on the environment.

If you see something that looks out of place record the details of vehicles such as the make, model and registration of suspicious vehicles. Also take note of the appearance of anyone acting suspiciously.

Report suspicious behaviour to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

To report a fire emergency call Triple Zero (000).

For more information visit NSW RFS Bushfire Arson.

For emergency fodder, stock water and stock assessment, contact Local Land Services on 1800 814 647.

For advice and assistance regarding injured wildlife, visit WIRES Emergency Advice, or call 1300 094 737.

For assistance with pets, livestock (including horses), and wildlife, complete the RSPCA's Bushfire Assistance Form or get in touch with them:

• via email at online@rspcansw.org.au, or
• call 1300 278 3589.

Drought conditions across NSW and the burning of huge tracts of land in recent fires have left many of our native animals in distress.

Many animals can survive for extended periods with little or no food but can only survive a matter of days without life-saving water. You can help our native wildlife by giving them a safe supply of water. 

To make a safe wildlife-friendly watering area, use:

• Shallow containers with a stable rock or stick in them to give safe access out of the water.
• Strong, stable containers to avoid them tipping over or collapsing.
• Firm surfaces to put the containers on, so they don’t tip if a heavy animal tries to use it.
• Containers at a range of heights from the ground so a range of animals can reach them.
• A cleared area with shade to allow nervous wildlife to watch out for predators and keep cool.
• Clean, fresh water. Change it daily to prevent the spread of disease.

Remember to keep:

• Children, cats and dogs away from your wildlife-friendly watering area.
• Your pool covered or put in a ramp or floatation device to allow wildlife to escape if they fall in while drinking. Check your pool daily.
• A photo diary of the visitors to your wildlife-friendly watering area to share on the National Parks and Wildlife Facebook page.

Contact your local wildlife rescue group or vet. Use the IFAW Wildlife Rescue App to find one near you.

Most wildlife is not used to being handled and can become very stressed. If a trained wildlife rescue volunteer or vet is not immediately available:

- Remove threats from the animal including small children, cats and dogs.

- Cover and contain the animal in a box lined with a towel.

- Don't give food or water unless instructed by a trained wildlife rescue volunteer or a vet.

- Keep the animal inside in a quiet place, allowing it to rest with no disturbance.

For more information visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Services Help Injured Wildlife.

It is incredible to see the huge community lead movement which is providing food and water stations for our local wildlife through groups like the Wildlife Stations Shoalhaven.

Council is assisting by installing some stations and monitoring these sites with remote sensor cameras. A variety of wildlife have been recorded using the stations including Red-necked Wallabies, Wonga Pigeons, small birds like the Lewin's Honeyeater and Bower Birds. 

You can help by setting up your own water stations. For instructions visit Wildlife Drinking Stations.

After fires have impacted a property, trees can be susceptible to falling due to damage to their trunk or root ball.

The State Emergency Service should be contacted on 132 500 or a tree surgeon in the first instance if trees are at imminent danger of falling and causing damage to life or property.

Any other tree removal will be dealt with in the normal manner in line with Council's Tree and Vegitation Management DCP.

Vegetation that has been burnt by bushfire will regenerate over time. Being impacted by bushfire is not a reason to conduct clearing of the vegetation and requires the same approval process in-place prior to the bushfires.

Illegal clearing of vegetation is still an offence and allegations of clearing will be investigated by Council or Department Planning Industry & Environment.

Pressure Sewer Systems are small, on-property, units that collect, grind and pump household sewage into a pressurised reticulation system in the street. This then conveys the household sewage on to a treatment plant. 

The pressure sewer unit and all relating components are owned and maintained by Shoalhaven Water in their entirety. Operations staff are currently making their way to all properties in the fire areas to assess damage to these systems and where not damaged but have no power, are being pumped out using generators. These generators are connected periodically to allow enough time to empty each system, then moved onto to subsequent properties to ensure everyone in turn is pumped out.

If your E-One unit, boundary kit or control box have been damaged please contact Shoalhaven Water on on 4429 3214 (business hours) or 4421 3100 (after hours) so we can arrange the replacement of these units.

There are one-way valves in the boundary box at the connection point to the sewer main. This valve should prevent any sewage from entering your property from the sewer main. Shoalhaven Water staff are moving through the affected areas to ensure that the connection point is intact.

If you are concerned that your system is nearing capacity and require a generator to assist in the pump-out, please contact Shoalhaven Water on 4429 3214 (business hours) or 4421 3100 (after hours) and we will send staff to attend.

Our crews are making their way to affected properties in each area. If the property has been destroyed, meters are being removed, internal lines disconnected, and a tap connection provided. This unmetered service will ensure property owners can access water during the recovery and rebuild process.

If your meter is damaged and you are still occupying the property, please contact Shoalhaven Water on 4429 3214 (business hours) or 4421 3100 (after hours) and we will send staff to repair or replace.

Fire retardants are used to slow the spread or intensity of a fire. They help fire fighters on the ground to control and contain a fire and help protect properties. Fire retardants may also be dropped from aircraft during firefighting operations. 

Sometimes a red coloured pigment, made from iron oxide, is added so that those spraying can see where they have released the fire retardant. Fire retardants consist of detergent chemicals made from a combination of wetting agents and foaming chemicals, fertilisers (ammonium and diammonium sulfate and ammonium phosphate) mixed with thickeners (guar gum) and corrosion inhibitors (for aircraft safety). They are mixed with water to form a foam or slurry. Examples include, Angus Forexpan S and Phos-Chek WD-881, Phos- Chek D75-F and Phos-Chek D75-R. 

Fire retardants are mixed with water before they are used in the environment. After the water has completely evaporated, the remaining chemical residue retards vegetation or other materials from igniting, until it is removed by rain or erosion. Fire retardants also work by binding to plant material (cellulose) and preventing combustion.

The fire retardants currently used in Australia are of low toxicity. Testing shows these chemicals can produce minor irritant effects, such as minor respiratory irritation, before they are mixed with water. Gels can irritate eyes, airways and the skin. 

Risk assessments carried out in the United States and in Victoria demonstrate that the risk of health effects is very low, even to people who are accidentally exposed to the fire retardants during their application. The health risk from drinking rain water contaminated with fire retardants is also low, but the water may taste and smell unpleasant and consumption should be avoided. 

Anyone working with fire retardants are required to wear gloves, goggles and dust masks when handling the powder.

If eye contact occurs, rinse eyes with fresh water continuously for several minutes until all contaminant is washed out.  If symptoms develop or persist, seek medical attention.

If swallowed, rinse your mouth out with fresh water; then consult a doctor.

If skin contact occurs, wash the affected area with soap and water. 

For further information call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.

The most effective way to prevent contamination of your water tank is to ensure that your tank is properly sealed. 

In addition:

• Disconnect your water tank as soon as there is a bush fire risk to prevent contaminated water from entering it.
• Install a first flush diverter or make sure the first part of runoff after rain cannot go into your tank to prevent any water runoff from your roof containing fire retardant from entering your tank. It will also prevent embers, ash and other contaminants from entering your drinking water. 
• Make sure you clean your roof after a bushfire.
• If fire retardant does enter your water tank do not drink or use the water for food preparation. The high levels of ammonia and sulfate may make it smell unpleasant and taste salty.
• Contaminated water is not suitable for drinking for humans as well as animals; including pets and livestock. 
• The water can still be used for irrigation and fire-fighting purposes.
• Boiling the water will not remove contamination.

When cleaning surfaces wear protective equipment such as safety glasses, disposable gloves and a disposable face mask.

If aerial fire retardant or fire-fighting foam residue is present on your house or cars, use a mild detergent with water and brushes to scrub and dilute the dried residue then rinse with clean water.

Further information on the maintenance of rainwater tanks can be found on the NSW Health website.