News

The 2025 season has been especially difficult for many growers, particularly those impacted by the NSW East Coast severe weather (AGRN 1212) from 18 May and/or Tropical Cyclone Alfred (AGRN 1198) from 3 March. Prolonged saturation made orchard access difficult, delayed harvest, and in some areas, washed away crop and caused significant damage to orchard floors and infrastructure.

Growers affected by one or both events can now apply for Disaster Relief Grants under the Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) Storm and Flood Recovery Programs.

As with previous grant funding the definition of ‘primary producer’ presents challenges for some macadamia growers, particularly those in orchard establishment phase. The AMS is engaged with NSW Government on this issue and in seeking clarity re eligible activities, including tree replacement.

About the grants

• Provided as part of the jointly funded Australian Government-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements 2018 (DRFA), the grants are designed to minimise disruption and support recovery, helping primary producers with essential recovery costs.
• AGRN 1198 - Tropical Cyclone Alfred Severe Weather from 3 March 2025 – Grant amount $25,000 (GST exclusive)
• AGRN 1212 - NSW East Coast Severe Weather from 18 May 2025 – Grant amount $75,000 (GST exclusive)
• For both grants, 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 are open until 4 December 2025 at 4pm.
• Claims (for successful applicants) close 4 June 2026 (AGRN 1198) and 4 September 2026 (AGRN 1212).

Program guidelines and information

• Before proceeding with your application, please refer to the detailed RAA Program Guidelines AGRN 1198 and AGRN 1212, which include eligibility criteria (eligible expenditure and evidence, eligible locations etc) and how to apply (including what to include).
• The recent Grant Workshop hosted by AMS and NSW DPIRD provided an opportunity for growers to learn more about the Grants Program and pose questions directly to the RAA and RFCS.  A supporting reference document for macadamia growers has been produced from the workshop Q&A.

Support with your application

• If you need assistance with your application, or have questions regarding your eligibility, please:

                o  Contact the Rural Assistance Authority:

                          Phone: 1800 678 593 (free call) 

                          Email: [email protected] 

                          Website: www.raa.nsw.gov.au 

                o Contact the Rural Financial Counselling Service

                         Phone: 1800 344 090 (free call) 

                         Email: [email protected] 

                         Website: rfcsnr.org.au

               o Talk to your business advisor, accountant, or a trusted family member/friend.