The New South Wales Government has selected Laing O’Rourke to undertake the first phase of recovery works after the bushfires across the State.
The company plans to work with local subcontractors and regional small businesses in NSW as part of the project.
Planning is already underway, with individuals encouraged to register bushfire-damages properties through the Service NSW website or by calling 13 77 88.
Laing O’Rourke Australia Managing Director Cathal O’Rourke said the business was honoured to have been chosen for this task and committed to delivering this important work as promptly as possible and with the highest degree of sensitivity and safety for the many communities affected across NSW.
“We will work with local subcontractors and regional small businesses across NSW to ensure they are engaged in the delivery of the clean-up process – providing much needed stimulus to local economies,” O’Rourke said.
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The Federal and NSW Governments will share the costs of the cleanup of residential and commercial properties on a 50:50 basis. This follows the successful approach adopted by the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments’ response to the Black Saturday bushfires.
“This is an important step to get the clean-up and rebuilding process moving to help people get back on their feet,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.
“We know many people are still battling these blazes but where the fire-front has passed we’re deploying $2 billion through our National Bushfire Recovery Agency to help people rebuild their homes and communities.”
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the destruction caused by these fires is unprecedented and the process of recovery and rebuilding will take time.
“Government is picking up the bill for the clean-up, at no cost to owners, so if you’re uninsured, this is one less thing to worry about and if you are insured, it means you will be able to use every dollar of your policy to rebuild,” she said.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the clean-up was a mammoth task but that he was confident the partnership with Laing O’Rourke will see properties cleared and the rebuild begin as soon as possible.
“With 2,399 homes destroyed and more than 10,000 buildings damaged or destroyed all up, we have a long journey ahead of us,” Barilaro said.
“Despite the enormity of the job, Laing O’Rourke has indicated the majority of properties will be substantially cleared by mid-year, with a focus on residential properties.
“The contractor will also be working hand in hand with Public Works Advisory to engage local suppliers and subcontractors, to keep local economies ticking over.