Recovery Assistance Points (RAPs) are now in operation in Thirroul and Warrawong, which are packed with resources to help residents recover. The centres are managed by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) which is leading the disaster recovery and has been on the ground this week working with councils and agencies to understand the local impact.

Residents can now attend a RAP to access mental health services, legal aid, community not-for-profits, and Government representatives, including:

• Service NSW, including Business Concierges (at Thirroul)
• NSW Reconstruction Authority
• Salvation Army
• Insurance Council of Australia
• Telephone interpreting services

The RA has already seen more than 100 people come through the doors and will assess whether there is a need for operations to be extended beyond this week.

The RAPs are located at Thirroul District Community Centre & Library, 352-358 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, and the Warrawong Community Centre, 7-9 Greene Street, during the following hours:

• Friday, 10am-4pm
• Saturday, 9am-1pm

Support is also available through Service NSW for those unable to visit in person, with Customer Care specialists available by phone on 13 77 88.

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said:

“This is an incredibly challenging time for communities in the Illawarra.

“It’s important we help residents get back on their feet as quickly as possible, and one way we can do that is through in-person support at Recovery Assistance Points.

“This is a time when we need to come together and support those who are doing it tough, so I’d encourage anyone who needs it to get out to one of our RAPs and get help.”

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“Many in our community would still remember the events of the 1998 floods which is why it’s so devastating to see flooding on this scale occurring today.

“As a government, we’ve worked quickly to get funding to local councils, but we also know face-to-face support is crucial for the community to recover.

“I encourage anyone impacted by the floods to visit our Recovery Assistance Points and I want to assure those affected that we are here to help manage the region’s recovery.”

Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said:

“I encourage residents to attend the Recovery Centre to register any help they need. There are government services available to wrap around people and support them during this time.

"This is the start of the recovery process, for our residents and small businesses. We will be here to provide ongoing support."