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SYDNEY - Prime Minister John Howard has offered additional financial support, and his condolences, to people affected by the devastating NSW storms.
"On behalf of the government, I express my deepest sympathy to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones in this terrible event," Mr Howard said in a statement today.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the communities who have suffered and are continuing to feel the impact of this natural disaster.
Eight people have died in the severe storms sweeping the NSW Hunter and Central Coast regions and one person is missing.
Mr Howard said he had authorised cash payments from the commonwealth to people who have suffered serious injury, or lost their principal place of residence or had that residence rendered uninhabitable for a period of 48 hours as a direct result of the disaster.
Mr Howard said this assistance was in addition to the support being provided by the federal government under the long-standing Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).
Under the NDRRA the commonwealth assists states with funding and resourcing response and recovery operations in large-scale disasters.
Mr Howard said the additional relief would provide $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child.
People wishing to claim this assistance should contact Centrelink on 180 2211 (190 2211).
Mr Howard said the recovery from the violent storms and flooding would take time.
He said the federal government would work closely with the state.
"I am committed to working with the NSW premier, Mr Morris Iemma, to support the ongoing relief effort."
He said he had spoken with Mr Iemma offering the commonwealth's help.
"The rescue, recovery and relief operation so far has been exemplary and on behalf of the government I extend my gratitude and thanks to all those involved in the response," Mr Howard said.
"The police, State Emergency Service personnel, rescue crews and all other people involved in the storm and flood response rightfully deserve our admiration and respect."
Speaking on ABC radio in Newcastle, Mr Howard said he was still to decide whether to visit the stricken area.
"I think it's important to do it (to visit), if I am to do it, is to do it so that I don't divert ... from the relief effort," he said.
"There's always a balance to be struck between demonstrating a concern but equally not getting in the way of people (volunteers) that are desperately needed (to help)."
- AAP
