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The Treasurer wasn’t the only senior Federal Labor MP to hold a press conference this morning.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese poses before the media at Forbes flood-affected communities in western New South Wales with New South Wales Prime Minister Dominic Perrotet, Local Councilor Michael McCormack and Local Councilor Philippe Donato is in line.

“We are living in very dangerous times in the coming days and weeks,” he said in his opening remarks.

“What we have is the potential for more rain here in western NSW and the potential for more rain in Victoria and Tasmania,” he said.

“All of them combine to have an impact. Essentially, a drop of rain has nowhere to go but stays on the surface due to the flooding that has occurred over a period of time.

“That’s why my government stands ready to work with state and local governments, and work with communities to provide the requested assistance. To build resilience and build support.” .”

Albanese also called on people to follow the advice of local authorities.

“Too many people don’t take advice when they’re told to evacuate,” he said.

“They say no, we are right. As a result, they have to be rescued – with more resources and more risk – not just for themselves, but in the field. Also for the emergency services personnel who are providing that assistance.

“Yesterday, when I was on the helicopter, [the Victorian town of] Rochester, with Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria, watching incredulously as two cars passed through a road that was clearly flooded up to window height. It makes no sense. Don’t take risks. Forget it if it’s flooded. It’s as easy as that. ”