The State Government is boosting staff numbers to speed up the processing of Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) Recovery Grants for impacted primary producers, by doubling the number of people working on assessments.
This initiative is already reducing processing times for grants to primary producers who are recovering from recent natural disasters.
“Our message to primary producers is clear, we have implemented improvements to processing applications but there is more work to do, and I understand their concerns regarding the waiting time for payments.” said Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty.
“That’s why we are doubling the number of people on the job, to clear the backlog and get more payments out the door.”
Since June, the RAA has received almost 2,000 applications and has approved more than $23 million in payments.
The initial rollout faced some delays due to the large number of applications lodged, but with many applications now processed the focus has shifted to ensuring payments get out the door faster.
By the end of last week already received applicants will either had their claim assessed or received a direct update on the status of their application and what, if any, information is still required.
The time for processing an application has been reduced to 25 business days, and the State Government has directed that the goal needs to be 20 business days as soon as possible.
The additional staff will work directly on assessments, ensuring straightforward applications are fast-tracked, and more complex cases have the extra resources to speed up the appropriate review.
To apply for assistance: www.raa.nsw.gov.au and Grant Application Tips.
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au