Mayor calls for increased disaster funding

MIDCOAST Council Mayor Claire Pontin has written to Premier Chris Minns requesting him to seek a “Category D” disaster classification from the Federal Government.

Cr Pontin recently met with key NSW Ministers, including Minister for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin, to push for a more substantial and long-term funding commitment – including Category D disaster funding and critical “betterment” funding for local infrastructure.

“We know our communities are doing it tough,” Mayor Pontin said.

“People have lost their homes, their possessions, their businesses and their retail stock and livestock.

“This means many have also lost their incomes.

“Many areas across the MidCoast have been impacted by repeated flood events.

“We’re not just talking about potholes here – we’re talking about entire road and bridge networks, drainage systems, public parks and community spaces that are severely damaged or completely unusable.”

As well as greater access to personal and business grants for affected people, Cr Pontin said she is focused on securing betterment funding, which goes beyond basic “like-for-like” repairs.

“The current model only allows us to rebuild what was there before – no improvements, no upgrades,” she explained.

“Betterment funding means we can rebuild infrastructure to a higher, more resilient standard – so roads don’t wash away again in the next flood, and drainage systems actually cope with the increased rain we’re seeing.”

Category D funding, which supports longer-term recovery needs and community well-being, is also a top priority for the Mayor.

“This level of funding allows us to address broader recovery needs – mental health support, community programs, and restoring public assets like parks, sportsgrounds and community halls,” Cr Pontin said.

“These are essential parts of our community that help people get their lives back on track.”

In her meetings with Minister Saffin and other key state and federal representatives, Mayor Pontin called for:

· Betterment funding for essential roads and bridges

· Drainage upgrades to prevent repeat flooding

· Restoration of public spaces and facilities

· Direct funding support for community recovery initiatives

· Provision of temporary housing.

“This is not about asking for a handout – it’s about giving our communities a fair go,” she said.

“We can’t keep rebuilding the same roads and bridges and expect different results.

“Our residents deserve safer infrastructure, better planning, and real support to recover and thrive.”