Minister for Justice Michael Keenan and Victorian Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett have announced disaster assistance in response to the bushfires that affected Victorian communities on 25 December 2015. Mr. Keenan explained that the assistance is being provided under the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.
“The relief grants will help support local communities so they can recover as quickly as possible.” Ms Garrett commented “It has been devastating for these communities at Christmas time, which is why we are making sure people have the support they need.”
“The Australian and Victorian governments recognise the need for quick action to help affected communities recover from the devastating impacts of yesterday’s Christmas bushfires.” Mr Keenan commented “This assistance includes a number of arrangements to help with the cost of relief and recovery, and is in addition to a range of other assistance measures already available in response to the bushfires that occurred on 19 December 2015.”
Ms Garrett went on to explain that individuals in the local government areas of Colac-Otway and Surf Coast will now be able to access the following emergency grants to relieve personal hardship and distress: Emergency Relief Assistance, which provides payments of up to $520 per adult and $260 per child (up to a maximum of $1,300 per household) available to help meet immediate needs, including emergency food, shelter, clothing, and personal items. Emergency Re-establishment Payments, which provide up to $32,500 per eligible household for clean-up, emergency accommodation, repairs, rebuilding (a principal place of residence), and replacing some damaged contents. Garrett went on to add that affected individuals and families will be able to access personal and financial counselling; and affected local councils will be able to seek assistance with the costs of clean-up operations and restoration of essential public assets.

Anyone who has been affected by the bushfires and is suffering personal hardship and distress should call the Victorian Emergency Recovery Information Line on 1300 799 232.

For More Information www.disasterassist.gov.au
Fore More Information www.recovery.vic.gov.au