OVERVIEW:
Severe flooding across New South Wales’ Mid North Coast and Hunter regions has triggered emergency evacuations, damaged key infrastructure, and disrupted retail operations across the state. The Australian Retailers Association is actively monitoring the situation and working with members, emergency services, and government agencies to understand and respond to the impacts on the retail sector.
LATEST UPDATES:
In response to the major flooding in the Mid North Coast and surrounding areas, additional emergency service teams from across the nation have deployed to support the NSW SES.
Affected residents are urged to remain vigilant and to not enter flood waters which continue to pose risks. Even though some rivers may be falling, there is a renewed risk of river rises again over the coming days as rainfall continues and re-intensify.
- Evacuation centres have been opened to support isolated communities.
- For emergency help during floods and storms, call NSW SES on 132 500.
- In life-threatening situations, dial Triple Zero (000).
- Download the Hazards Near Me app for real-time warnings and updates.
SUPPORT AVAILABLE:
Personal Support
Support is available for people affected by the severe weather and flooding in NSW.
Health and Recovery
If you have been impacted by storms and floods, help is available:
- NSW Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511
- Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14
- 13YARN (Indigenous crisis support) – 13 92 76
- For free 24/7 health advice, contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222
- Returning home may be delayed if your area is unsafe – stay informed via:
- NSW SES for warnings and evacuation advice
- Live Traffic NSW for road closures and access restrictions
Financial
- Disaster Payments and Allowances – Financial assistance will be made available through Services Australia for eligible individuals impacted by the disaster.
- Claims Open – From 2 pm local time, Monday 26 May 2025, individuals will be able to submit claims online via Services Australia. More detailed information on payment types and eligibility will be published closer to the opening time.
Business Support
If your business has been impacted by the NSW floods, support is available through both the NSW and Australian Governments.
Businesses located in declared natural disaster areas may be eligible for financial assistance, freight subsidies, recovery planning support, and more.
To check if your area is eligible and view available support, visit:
ARA members can access further advice on lawful stand downs under the Fair Work Act, by calling the ARA Employment Relations hotline on 1300 368 041.
