- $100,000 to the Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund
- State Government will also make an emergency assistance payment of $3,000 to people whose houses have been destroyed
The State Government will donate $100,000 to the Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund to help victims of the tragic Esperance fires.
Premier Colin Barnett visited Esperance yesterday with Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis and met with firefighters and local residents, and heard firsthand of the devastation the fires had caused.
"Tragically, these devastating fires have taken the lives of four members of the local community and caused terrible destruction," Mr Barnett said.
"I want to offer my sincere sympathy, and the State Government's condolences, to the families and friends of those people who have lost their lives.
"Despite the hardship faced, it was heartening to see how quickly the local community has pulled together and supported each other in this time of need."
The Premier said the State Government would also make available emergency funding of $3,000 to those whose homes have been destroyed and $1,000 to people whose houses have been damaged but which are still habitable. This will be administered by the Shire of Esperance.
"I would like to thank all Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) personnel, WA Police, St John Ambulance, those in local government, Horizon Power, Water Corporation and the Department of Parks and Wildlife for their efforts since this emergency began unfolding two days ago," he said.
To date more than 120 people have sought safety and information at the emergency evacuation centre set up by the Department for Child Protection and Family Support at the Esperance Civic Centre.
As of this morning, DFES said three homes had been damaged and the Scaddan Community Hall had been destroyed, about 130,000 hectares had been burnt and thousands of livestock killed. More than 100 electricity poles have also been destroyed.
People wanting to donate money to the Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund can do so over the counter at any Bankwest branch or agency.
The fund provides relief for personal hardship and distress arising from natural disasters occurring within Western Australia.
Fact File
- People wishing to apply for assistance or needing more information should contact the Department for Child Protection and Family Services on 1800 199 008 or visit http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au
- Donations to the Esperance Fires Appeal can be made:
- via EFT or over the counter at any Bankwest branch or agency to the dedicated appeal account BSB: 306-035, Account: 201445-8
- in person at the Customer Service counter at Council House, 27 St Georges Terrace, Perth
- on the phone via credit card on 9461 3886 during normal business hours
- by mail to LMDRF, Esperance Fires Appeal, City of Perth, GPO Box C120, Perth WA 6839
Premier's office - 6552 5000
