Storm recovery in Lake Macquarie - May 2025

Published on 22 May 2025

We've put together some useful information to help our community recover after the May 2025 storms.

A natural disaster declaration has been made for some councils in the Hunter region, including Lake Macquarie City Council. 

Road closures

Most roads across Lake Macquarie have reopened.

As water recedes it may reveal damaged pavement underneath, please proceed with caution and drive to conditions.

Our crews are working hard to fix potholes on all our roads and regrade unsealed roads. Lodge a request online for maintenance, repairs, roads, waste and other services.

Disaster declaration

Lake Macquarie City Council has been added to the NSW Government's natural disaster declaration for the severe weather that occurred in May. 

This provides individuals and businesses with access to a range of relief measures including grants, loans and more.

Property damage

If a tree or limb from a tree located on private property has fallen and caused damage to private property, the NSW SES will attend to remove the tree or limb from a building or to allow access to the property. You can contact the NSW SES at 132 500

Property owners are advised to make their own arrangements or contact their insurance company to have tree debris removed. You can use your weekly green bin to dispose of green waste or request a bulky waste collection or a voucher to dispose of your bulky waste at the Awaba Waste Management Facility. Book your service online.

The NSW Government has waived the waste levy for flood and storm generated waste until 18 August. It applies to waste going to landfill – like damaged carpet, furniture, building materials and other items.

Green waste, mattresses, tyres and other recyclables are not included in the waiver.

Lake Macquarie residents can drop off flood and storm waste at the Awaba Waste Management Facility. Customers with storm waste will receive a $170.10 per tonne levy discount. An operational fee – also known as a gate fee or tip fee – of $270 per tonne will continue to be charged for mixed household waste. 

Waste management

Our kerbside collection service is the best way to get rid of bulky items. You can request a bulky waste collection or a voucher to dispose of your bulky waste at the Awaba Waste Management Facility. Book your service online. Be sure to only put your waste on the kerb once collection is confirmed.

The NSW Government has waived the waste levy for flood and storm generated waste until 18 August. It applies to waste going to landfill – like damaged carpet, furniture, building materials and other items. Green waste, mattresses, tyres and other recyclables are not included in the waiver.

Lake Macquarie residents can drop off flood and storm waste at the Awaba Waste Management Facility. Customers with storm waste will receive a $170.10 per tonne levy discount. An operational fee – also known as a gate fee or tip fee – of $270 per tonne will continue to be charged for mixed household waste. 

Safe disposal of livestock

Farmers with deceased livestock following the recent floods can request help with safe animal disposal through the Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA).

Community members can also report deceased livestock found in public spaces.

Call the AASFA hotline for assistance on 1800 814 647. Open daily, 8am-6pm (extended hours in place).

Potential for fallen trees

Recent strong winds and heavy rainfall have caused damage to trees and vegetation across our area.

We kindly ask residents to steer clear of fallen trees and debris, as there may be hidden hazards such as broken branches or unstable tree trunks.

Our teams are working closely with the State Emergency Service (SES) to clear affected areas as quickly and safely as possible.

While we are making every effort to respond promptly, we appreciate your patience and understanding as this recovery process will take some time. 

For further information and support, visit the NSW Government’s Flood Recovery website