Flood insurance claims top 4900 as grants expanded

WHAT IS THE EXTENT OF THE DAMAGE?

* Almost 800 properties have been deemed unfit for living, with the number expected to rise

* Five people have died: one at Rosewood near Port Macquarie, one in Dorrigo west of Coffs Harbour, one at Nana Glen north of Coffs Harbour, one at Moto north of Taree, and one in Cooplacurripa near Taree

* As of Tuesday evening, about 700 homes and businesses remained without power on the mid-north coast

* Livestock has been swept away in floodwaters

HOW MANY INSURANCE CLAIMS HAVE BEEN LODGED?

* Insurers have received some 4930 claims from the floods, an increase of about 800 since Monday

* Homes make up a significant majority of the claims (3954)

* The Mid-Coast local government area, taking in Taree and Wingham, has lodged the most number of claims (1223)

* Central Coast (677), Lake Macquarie (630) and Newcastle (601) regions follow suit

WHAT SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE?

* Flood-affected communities across 19 local government areas can apply for grants, loans or payments through myGov

* A one-time payment of $1000 per adult and $400 per child was made available on Tuesday for those suffering major damage to their home or serious injury or loss of a loved one due to the floods

* The Australian Tax Office might defer tax lodgements or debt payments to people affected by floods

* The big four banks are providing disaster assistance for flood-affected individuals.

Source: SES, Essential Energy & Insurance Council Australia

Lifeline 13 11 14

beyondblue 1300 22 4636