Indigenous Australian Communities Offered Flood Clean-Up Help

Bundjalung Country was largely submerged in the devastating floods that struck north-east New South Wales (NSW), one year ago.

Several Aboriginal communities in Walgett were also forced to evacuate after flooding struck western NSW late last year.

As part of its new Aboriginal Lands Flood Recovery program, the NSW Environment Protection Authority offers up to $10million (US$6.77million) to Indigenous communities.

The program will be managed in partnership by NSW Public Works. This program supports flood-affected communities to assess the effects of 2022’s floods on Indigenous lands and manage the clean up.

Jali Local Aboriginal Land Council represents traditional owners in Ballina, and the surrounding areas, including the community at Cabbage Tree Island.

Cabbage Tree Island was among the most affected areas by flooding. Jali led evacuation efforts and many homes were damaged.

AAP was told by Chris Binge, chief executive of Jali, that any support is welcome.

“We’re looking forward to working with all levels of government to ensure that all action is driven by the community,” Binge.

Tony Chappel, chief executive of Environment Protection Authority, stated that the program was designed to assist Indigenous communities in avoiding flooding on their lands.

“The damage to community land and the environment over the past year has been extensive and we recognise the entire NSW landscape has spiritual and cultural significance to all Aboriginal people,” Chappel said.

Chappel explained that the program would include cleaning up and removing flood-damaged areas such as cultural centres, sheds, and restoration fencing and the natural world.

“An important part of this program, where possible, is engaging local Aboriginal contractors to increase employment opportunities and embed consistent and meaningful understanding across the wider community,” Chappel said.

“Recognising community needs and culture is something that must always be at the forefront of any recovery effort.”

Through an expression of interest, the program will work with Aboriginal land councils or community land managers to help assess the potential for restoring areas.

It is being co-funded through a joint Commonwealth and NSW government disaster recovery initiative.