COMMONWEALTH ASSISTANCE FOR WESTERN AUSTRALIAN BUSHFIRE VICTIMS
31 December 2009
After a visit to affected communities by the Parliamentary Secretary for Western Australia, The Hon Gary Gray MP, the Commonwealth Government has announced that it will provide financial assistance to communities affected by bushfires in Western Australia under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).
This assistance will apply to natural disaster declared areas, including Dandaragan, Coorow and Toodyay.
Funding will be provided in cooperation with the Western Australian Government and includes:
- Personal hardship and distress (PHD) grants where principal residences have been damaged, based on need. Inquiries can be made to the WA Department of Child Protection on 1800 199 008;
- Support to local governments in the restoration of essential public infrastructure;
- Assistance for primary producers, including road and rail freight subsidies and other re-establishment costs. Inquiries can be made to the WA Department of Food and Agriculture on 1800 198 231;
- Interest rate subsidies for small businesses. Inquiries can be made to the Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia on (08) 9323 9552 or wandrra@fesa.wa.gov.au
“The Commonwealth, through Emergency Management Australia, will continue to work closely with Western Australian authorities through the Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia, to ensure that affected communities have all the support they need during this difficult period,” Mr McClelland said.
“These fires are an enormous blow to the people whose homes and property have been affected by the fire”, Mr Gray said. “My thoughts, and the thoughts of all Western Australians, are with them.
“I will continue to monitor the situation and report directly to the Attorney-General.”
Media Contact: Adam Siddique 0407 473 630 (Mr McClelland’s Office)
