BY IAN CROUCH
The federal government has declared a natural disaster in the Cessnock Local Government Area as the flood emergency continues.
It's one of 23 local government areas in Sydney and NSW where the declaration has been made including the Central Coast.
The declaration clears the way for joint Commonwealth-State assistance to become available under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
It means immediate assistance is available to eligible residents whose home and belongings have been damaged by storms and floods since June 27.
Cessnock Council can also receive help with the cost of cleaning up and restoring damaged roads and essential public assets.
Small businesses, primary producers and non-profit organisations are eligible for concessional loans and freight subsidies.
Meanwhile,the SES says major flooding is likely at Bulga due to significant river rises along the Wollombi Brook.
Minor flooding is expected along the Lower Hunter River at Singleton and Maitland along with the Paterson River at Gostwick.
