Who is responsible for flood clean-up in the Clarence Valley?

The Daily Telegraph, 9 April 2021:

Almost three weeks have passed since major flooding impacted the Clarence Valley, isolating some communities and properties for several days. However, Cr Novak said since the water has receded, so too have efforts to help flood-affected residents.

“We have now moved from a flood recovery to an extreme public health risk with rotting, flood decayed furniture on our streets,” she said.

“This is simply not good enough for our community, we have failed them miserably on all levels in this natural disaster.”

Last week, Cr Novak posted a public apology to the Clarence Valley community on her Facebook page for the lack of critical flood recovery information and referred them to a March 25, 2021 EPA media release.

“This was the only information I could find about flood support,” she said.

“It’s also appalling that (Clarence Valley) Council have not had anything on their Facebook page or website to tell anybody what to do after the flood. I searched CVC’s website and Facebook page for a phone number to direct residents to but there was no information for the collection of household flood debris.

“I’m still trying to find the right number to direct community members to.”

According to the Service NSW website, skip bins and dump trucks were to be provided, along with clean-up assistance, including the removal of debris, mud, and green waste, regardless of insurance status.

However, that has yet to eventuate, according to Cr Novak.

“I received a phone call and text from a resident at Shark Creek seeking help to get his flood damaged furniture collected. He had flood waters go through his home ruining all his furniture,” she said.

“The ADF came earlier in the week and assisted with his clean up and took all the small items to the tip. All the bigger items were left on the side of the road waiting collection.”

Cr Novak said she has contacted several government agencies to find out who was responsible, including the EPA, Clarence Valley Council, and the Minister for Emergency Services David Elliott. However, each one has deflected responsibility.

“Will someone please tell me whose job it is to collect this flood rubbish?” Cr Novak said.

“The level of incompetence for this flood recovery in the Lower Clarence continues to beggar disbelief.”