Calls for Expanded Relief as Storms Ravage Bondi and Beyond

Bondi Beach has been buried under a thick layer of sand after powerful storms lashed New South Wales, prompting widespread calls for expanded disaster relief to support affected communities.



Bondi Beach and Sydney’s Storm Damage

The iconic Bondi Beach promenade, usually filled with locals and tourists, became unrecognisable as strong winds dumped tonnes of sand onto the walkways. Emergency crews worked to clear the debris as nearby residents grappled with flooding and property damage. 

On Sydney’s Upper North Shore, a homeowner in Wahroonga reported extensive water damage to multiple rooms after a tree fell between two houses.

At the height of the storms, which began late last week, power was cut to approximately 260,000 homes across the state. By Sunday, 19 January, more than 15,000 households were still without electricity, with repair crews addressing a backlog of calls for fallen trees and downed power lines. 

In Eastwood, strong winds sent a backyard shed flying over a fence, highlighting the severity of the weather.

Regional Communities Under Strain

The storms brought torrential rain and damaging winds to areas beyond Sydney, with regions such as the mid-north coast and Hunter Valley facing significant challenges. Flood risks prompted local emergency warnings for locations including the Ferndale Caravan Park and communities downstream of the Chichester Dam.

Port Stephens SES volunteers dealt with various storm-related incidents, including the unusual rescue of pet goats trapped under a fallen tree and trampoline. While the animals were unharmed, the incident was emblematic of the widespread disruption faced by residents.

Relief Measures Under Scrutiny

A natural disaster declaration was issued for Maitland, Port Stephens, and the Snowy Valleys, unlocking financial assistance for severely affected communities. This support includes emergency housing, help for uninsured residents to replace essential items, and funding for council clean-up efforts.

However, residents in neighbouring areas such as the Central Coast and Cowra expressed frustration at being left out of the declaration. Local MPs called for broadening the disaster relief program, pointing to extended power outages and food spoilage as significant issues in excluded regions. State and federal authorities acknowledged the concerns, with discussions underway to assess additional storm-affected areas for eligibility.

Community Support and Recovery Efforts

In Maitland, community hubs have been established to provide hot meals, charging stations, and other essentials to storm-affected residents. Free green waste drop-off facilities have also been set up to assist with clean-up efforts. Local officials praised the efforts of the SES, Ausgrid, and council staff in responding to the crisis.



Residents across the state are urged to remain cautious, avoid floodwaters, and check on vulnerable neighbours as recovery efforts continue. Emergency services have responded to over 7,500 calls for assistance, with teams working tirelessly to restore normalcy in affected areas.

Australia’s Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements has been activated for storm-hit communities.

Published 21-January-2025