Wingecarribee Roads: Why Disaster Repairs Take Years, Not Months

Published on 11 April 2025

Since 2019, Wingecarribee Shire has been hit by 16 natural disasters - that’s one every five months. Floods, fires, storms and landslips have left a trail of destruction across our road network and other critical infrastructure. 

The financial toll is staggering, over $43 million in damage assessed in just five years. Council is currently managing over $24 million in outstanding damage claims dating back to 2022. Of the total disaster damage, approximately $19 million has been approved for funding so far. 

In a new video, Mayor Fitzpatrick outlines the significant challenges Council faces when responding to natural disasters and why it takes years to fully repair infrastructure.

A Complex and Lengthy Process 

While damage to roads and bridges may appear overnight, the repair process doesn’t. That’s because access to disaster funding is governed by strict state and federal criteria under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). 

Here's how the process works: 

1. Disaster event occurs 
2. Emergency repair works may begin to restore access 
3. Wait for an official Natural Disaster Declaration – sometimes taking weeks or months 
4. Apply for inclusion in the declared event 
5. Assess and scope the damage – photograph, inspect and price the works 
6. Submit an initial claim based on pre-existing condition of the asset 
7. Design phase – bridges and major landslips can take 3–9 months to design
8. Re-submit the claim with final costs for full repair 
9. Await approval – claims may be approved, declined, or require revision 
10. Procure contractors to carry out the works
11. Undertake the repair works 
12. Maintain evidence for audit purposes – often years after the work is done 

Council has submitted over 5,000 individual claims over the past five years. Each one must meet detailed funding criteria and is subject to external audit - Council is currently undergoing two audits for works from more than three years ago. 

Delays Impact Everyone 

This system means communities can be left waiting years for major repairs. For example, Wombeyan Caves Road and Meryla Road have been damaged in multiple disasters, with geotechnical issues making repairs even more complex and expensive. 

While Council works closely with Transport for NSW and other government agencies, the recovery process remains slow. Funding delays, design challenges and limited contractor availability all impact timelines - especially in regional areas. 

Pushing for a Better Way 

Council recently endorsed a motion to call on the NSW Government to develop a faster and more streamlined disaster funding system - one that recognises the urgency of road and infrastructure repairs in rural and regional communities. 

“Disasters don’t wait - and neither should our funding,” said Mayor Fitzpatrick. “We need a process that enables faster recovery so our residents and businesses can get back on their feet sooner.” 

Hear from Mayor Fitzpatrick!