Report released into response of Reconstruction Authority to floods

A REPORT has been published examining the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s response to the severe weather event that hit the east coast in May 2025.

The review was undertaken by the Joint Select Committee on the NSW Reconstruction Authority, composed of MPs from across the political spectrum.

“This inquiry had a focus on the severe weather event that struck the broader NSW east coast in May 2025, particularly on the Mid North Coast region including Taree and surrounds,” said committee chair and Labor MP Clayton Barr.

In the report’s foreword, Mr Barr warned of the consistently high level of demand on the Authority.

“This single agency (NSW Reconstruction Authority) is expected to be so many things to so many people under a wide range of circumstances,” he said.

“Whether it is a power outage in the Far West, a flood in the Central West, a landslip on the North or South Coast, fires raging through the Hunter Valley, or a terrorist attack on the beaches of Sydney, we are increasingly turning to the NSW Reconstruction Authority for action.

“I have a personal concern that there must come a limit to the capacity of this one agency and that future government should be mindful of such a limitation.”

Broadly the Committee found that the Authority has strengthened its disaster recovery efforts since its establishment in 2022, however further improvements are needed to better support impacted communities over the long term.

The report makes 23 recommendations aimed at improving the Authority’s operations, including:

– Strengthening interagency coordination and partnerships with local councils and community  organisations;

– Expanding existing initiatives to support impacted individuals to ‘tell their story once’ following a disaster;

– Clarifying the Authority’s use of planning powers and interventions, including making improvements to the Resilient Homes Program;

– Increasing investment in disaster resilience and preparedness initiatives;

– Prioritising improvements to streamline payments to local councils as a matter of urgency.

Mr Barr said the review highlighted the importance of a community-led approach to disaster recovery.

“By working closely with local councils, community organisations and social service providers, the Authority can better support people who are most vulnerable in the wake of a disaster.”

The report also highlights the need for continued improvements to disaster funding arrangements to ensure support reaches affected communities quickly and efficiently.

“Recovery is a long journey, and many communities are still rebuilding after this historic disaster.

“We hope the Committee’s recommendations will ensure the Authority is providing the best possible support to help communities build back better,” Mr Barr said.