Helping communities affected by Kimberley floods
The Australian Government is working to ensure measures are in place to support people and communities in flood-affected areas of the Kimberley in Western Australia.
Staff from the Department of Families, Community Services Housing and Indigenous Affairs are working with the Western Australian Government, other government agencies and community organisations to provide support and assistance as required.
The Minister for Indigenous Affairs Jenny Macklin said the flooding had affected a number of Indigenous people living in remote communities.
“We know that the flooding has destroyed or damaged housing in the community of Warmun. It has also left communities isolated, with roads cut and bridges damaged.
“We want to ensure that people are in safe accommodation while living away from the damaged homes and that they will receive a range of supports to help rebuild their lives following these floods.
“I have asked my West Australian colleague, Gary Gray to visit the Kimberley in the coming days to ensure that people living in remote communities who have been affected by the flooding are getting the support they need.
“Discussions are also underway with the Western Australian Government including the Western Australian Department of Housing, about the impact of the floods on infrastructure and essential services.”
Mr Gray said the Attorney-General Robert McClelland had announced Commonwealth natural disaster relief assistance for people affected by the flooding.
“We know that residents of these remote communities will continue to need our support,” Mr Gray said.
“That’s why the Australian Government is committed to working with the West Australian Government to help with recovery as required.”
Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) assistance is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Western Australian Governments and is administered by Western Australian Government agencies.
For more information about this assistance visit www.fesa.wa.gov.au.