NRMA Insurance has pledged to deliver $800,000 in grants over two years to projects that improve protection against extreme weather in NSW’s Northern Rivers.  

It will work with the Northern Rivers Community Foundation, which will partner with the Northern Rivers Community Resilience Alliance on scheme design and funding allocation.

Money will be provided through NRMA’s Help Fund, with the first round of grants expected to be announced mid-year.  

“Northern Rivers communities have endured repeated floods, fires and storms in recent years,” NRMA Insurance CEO Julie Batch said.

“This partnership invests in community-led solutions to help the region prepare and thrive.”  

Community foundation CEO Sam Henderson says the scheme will be crucial for people who have had to carry “the burden of repeated disasters”.  

“With NRMA Insurance’s Help Fund enabling us to hold funds locally and distribute them through a community-led process, this is a game-changer,” Mr Henderson said.  

“Locals will decide the process and the best allocation of grants for optimal impact. It builds connections between individuals and local organisations, strengthening the foundation of long-term resilience.”