Minister for Justice Michael Keenan and NSW emergency services minister Troy Grant announced on Tuesday that disaster assistance would be available for several communities affected by bushfires in recent months.

Residents in the Cessnock local government area can now apply for assistance under the program, which can include help for eligible people whose homes or belongings who have been damaged, support for local councils and loans for small businesses and primary producers.

"The Australian and NSW governments are committed to working together to ensure that these communities receive the support they need to help them in their recovery," Mr Keenan said.

Assistance is being provided through the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).

For more information visit disasterassist.gov.au