Emergency assistance for Bundaberg train crash victims

The Australian Government will provide emergency assistance to the victims of the train crash near Bundaberg, Minister for Family and Community Services, Senator Kay Patterson said today.

Senator Patterson said the terrible accident in which a high-speed train was derailed is reported to have affected more than a hundred people.

‘I have asked my department to work with the Queensland Government to ensure a coordinated relief effort to help the victims,’ Senator Patterson said.

‘I have also spoken this morning with Mr Hockey, the Minister for Human Services, to ensure that Centrelink will have people on the ground to provide social work and other personal support services to people affected.

‘Funding will be made available as required under the Emergency Relief Program to assist people affected by this accident.

‘The thoughts and prayers of the Australian Government are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,’ Senator Patterson said.