Hon. Roger Cook
The Cook Government has activated Premier's Relief Payments, with Western Australians whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged by Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle now able to apply for emergency financial assistance.
Heavy rainfall and destructive winds associated with the cyclone have impacted residents in the Pilbara, Gascoyne and Mid West regions.
To support those affected by the cyclone and the associated flooding, one-off payments of $4,000 per household are available to eligible applicants whose homes were destroyed and who are permanently unable to return home.
A one-off payment of $2,000 per household is also available to eligible applicants whose homes have suffered major damage.
These payments will provide residents with support for expenses such as securing shelter or temporary accommodation, purchasing essential items like food and clothing, and assist with emergency transport.
Premier's Relief Payments will be managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services' State Recovery team, with applications and information about eligibility available via: https://recovery.dfes.wa.gov.au/.
Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:
"I want to acknowledge everyone who has been impacted by this cyclone and thank the volunteers and emergency services personnel who have responded in recent days.
"Your efforts have been critically important and will continue to be so in the weeks and months ahead as we begin the process of helping communities in our State's north rebuild and recover.
"This is a challenging situation, but together, we will ensure everyone who has suffered losses receives the support they need."
Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Paul Papalia:
"The Premier's Relief Payment is a critical mechanism that will provide the urgent recovery support necessary for people who have lost homes or suffered significant damage.
"The payments will help those affected pay for essential items such as food, clothing, emergency accommodation or help with the costs of damage to floors, walls, windows and doors.
"The State Government will also continue to work closely with local governments and impacted communities to help them recover from this natural disaster."