Residents and business owners have been dealing with property damage and financial strain due to recent severe weather.

Acknowledging the challenges faced in affected areas, authorities have introduced measures to provide some relief and ease the burden during this difficult time.


The government has reached out to energy companies with a heartfelt plea to defer electricity bills and waive specific fees for those hardest hit by the natural disaster.

This initiative is a beacon of hope for the 84,000 homes and businesses that experienced power outages, some repeatedly, from Tweed Heads to Grafton and west to Armidale.


Essential Energy, the company responsible for the extensive damage to the electricity distribution network, has confirmed it will waive the daily access charge for customers for the duration they were without power.

This gesture is a significant relief for many living without electricity due to the impact of the cyclone.

Energy Minister Penny Sharpe has penned letters to 22 energy companies, urging them to show solidarity with the affected communities.


The Minister's requests are straightforward and aimed at providing immediate relief:

• Waive the daily power supply charge for the period customers were left in the dark, passing on the waiver provided by Essential Energy to retailers.
• Defer any electricity bills due for 14 days, giving residents and businesses a much-needed respite.
• Hold off on any disconnections or repayment demands for 14 days for those in debt or with outstanding balances.
• Offer additional information on payment plans and available NSW Government financial support for those unable to pay their bills due to the cyclone's repercussions.

Minister Sharpe emphasised the importance of supporting households and business owners as they recover from the disaster.

'It is important we provide as much support as possible to households and business owners who are recovering from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred,' she said.

'I have written to energy retailers asking them to join Essential Energy in providing relief to customers in the natural disaster zone, and thank them in advance for any assistance they can offer,'


Further support is available for those whose ability to pay energy bills has been severely affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

The NSW Government's Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) scheme is a lifeline, helping people struggling with short-term financial hardship, crisis, or emergency keep their essential services connected.

EAPA provides aid specifically for current, unpaid energy bills.

Minister for Recovery, Small Business and the North Coast, Janelle Saffin, highlighted that every bit of support is crucial for families, households, and businesses facing tough times in the wake of the cyclone.

'Every bit of support counts for families, households and businesses doing it tough in the wake of this natural disaster,' Minister Sharpe added.

'Thank you for your consideration of this request during this difficult time for the residents and businesses of the Northern Rivers and North Coast.'


For our readers affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, we urge you to take advantage of these measures.

Contact your energy provider for bill deferrals, fee waivers, and payment assistance.

Remember, you are not alone in this recovery process, and resources are available to help you through these trying times.


Have you or someone you know been impacted by the cyclone and the subsequent power outages? Share your experiences and how you've navigated the challenges with us in the comments below. Your story could provide comfort and guidance to others in a similar situation.