The Federal Government has announced financial support for Western Australia’s Margaret River region following the catastrophic bushfires that swept through the region.

 

Federal funding will be provided to the Western Australian Government through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) scheme.

 

“People affected by the bushfires in the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River will have access to a range of support jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Western Australian Governments and administered through WA Government agencies,” Attorney General Robert McClelland said.  

Assistance includes:

  • Personal hardship and distress assistance including:
    • The provision of emergency assistance including emergency accommodation, food, essential clothing and other personal items – payments of up to $388 per eligible adult and up to $194 per eligible child on the 1st day of assistance (with reductions in payment levels on subsequent days)
    • Temporary living expenses of up to $110 per day per adult/family in the metropolitan area and up to $150 per day per adult/family in country areas.
  • Up to $10,000 - for the replacement of white goods and floors coverings.
  • Up to $ 10,500 for essential repairs to make houses habitable
  • Restoration of essential public assets for local councils
  • Interest rate subsidies for loans of up to $150,000 for small businesses and primary producers; and
  • Professional advice grants and freight subsidies for primary producers.

 

Mr McClelland said, “Emergency Management Australia (EMA) will continue to work closely with the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (WA) to help fire-affected communities recover and to minimise the economic impact of the fires on primary producers and small business in the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River.”