The NSW and Australian governments have announced Special Disaster Relief Grants of up to $75,000 to support primary producers impacted by the NSW East Coast Severe Weather event that began on 18 May 2025 (AGRN 1212).

Due to the scale of damage caused by this event, the Special Disaster Relief Grant has replaced the Natural Disaster Relief Grant of up to $25,000 for affected primary producers (the Natural Disaster Grant remains available to those impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred).

Provided as part of the jointly funded Australian Government-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements 2018 (DRFA), these grants are designed to minimise disruption and assist with the recovery of impacted primary production enterprises, including aquaculture operations.

Eligible primary producers can access an initial $5,000 by providing photographic evidence of direct damage, with the remaining funds available once valid tax invoices and proof of payment are submitted and verified.

Applications close at 4pm on 4 December 2025