The New South Wales government has taken action after it was revealed that some flood victims in Eugowra were billed for helicopter rescues by the ambulance service.
Invoices were sent to some residents after their town in the Central West was inundated by a wave of water on Monday, November 14.
The ABC understands payments of more than $1,000 were requested from at least two adults and a child.
More than 150 people in Eugowra were flown to safety as they tried to escape the extreme flash flood that killed two people, destroyed buildings and dislodged houses.
Most of the hundreds who ran for their lives ended up on roof tops and many waited up to seven hours to be rescued.
In a statement Deputy Premier Paul Toole said the billing error was being corrected.
"While this NSW Ambulance process is an automated one, I have discussed this with NSW Health and changes will be made to the billing system to ensure these circumstances do not happen again," he said.
"NSW Ambulance will be writing to affected residents advising them their invoices will be waived."
'Bit of a shock'
Graham Arnoll is among those who received an invoice.
The 87-year-old sought refuge in the corner of his home and stood on his toes, neck-deep in water.
He was there from 9am until 3:30pm, when he was winched to the town's showground.
"It was a very, very traumatic experience," Mr Arnoll said.
Battling hypothermia, he was then flown to the Orange Base Hospital, where he spent several days recovering.
Recently he received a bill for $1,150 for the flights.
"It was a bit of a shock," he said.
"My first reaction was anger, I suppose — but then you calm down and you start to think, 'It'll come out alright in the wash.'"
Mr Arnoll's health has deteriorated and he has difficulty breathing because he swallowed floodwater.
He said it was a relief the cost would be waived.
'Additional distress'
NSW Ambulance has issued statement apologising for the "additional distress" caused by the issuing of the invoices.
"In recognition of the devastation people have experienced due to the floods, all invoices have been waived," a spokesperson said.
Cabonne Council is among those calling for a "Back Home" grant of $20,000 to be made available immediately.
One month after the flood, residents on low incomes can access support for 13 weeks, as well as one-off payments of $1,000 for adults and $400 for children.
Businesses and not-for-profits can get their hands on $50,000 and primary producers have $75,000 available to them.
Many are facing difficulties with insurers as they fight for payouts to help them return home.
