Before and after: pictures reveal extent of flood damage across NSW as residents start returning

There have been 12,500 requests for help across the state this week and 1,000 flood rescues

The number of New South Wales residents forced from their homes by flooding is trickling down" with fewer than 9,000 still unable to return, as rivers across the state recede and the sun comes out.

The SES has started assessing damage in flood-affected areas with most rivers having peaked and evacuation orders being lifted.