Disaster recovery assistance is now available to the City of Albany, Shire of Denmark and Shire of Plantagenet in Western Australia's Great Southern following severe rains, wind and flooding in June.
Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie said the disaster assistance now available to WA is in recognition that the June cold front that passed over the State's South Coastal District caused significant damage to roads and a number of residential homes and community buildings with strong winds and rain.
"More than 100mm of rain was recorded in some areas, while winds of up to 100km per hour felled trees and power lines in a four-hour period," Minister McKenzie said.
"The significant damage to both major roads between Albany and Denmark - the South Coastal Highway and Lower Denmark Road - caused major disruption for residents and motorists.
"Financial assistance, through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, is now available to help restore public assets, road networks and for clean-up operations."
Western Australian Minister for Emergency Services Reece Whitby said State Emergency Service (SES) crews received 174 calls for assistance from affected communities.
"The level of damage to homes, roads and infrastructure had left many people stranded without power or water," Minister Whitby said.
"This has been a highly distressing time for residents and I would like to reassure families and businesses in affected communities that help is on the way.
"This financial assistance will enable communities in the region to rebuild and restore vital road networks and public assets."
The Western Australian Government will continue to work alongside the Australian Government and local communities to ensure those impacted have the necessary support they need during this difficult time.
Information on disaster assistance is available on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website at http://www.disasterassist.gov.au
