More emergency support made available to communities left reeling in the wake of cyclone Narelle

The Federal and State governments have announced further disaster recovery funds for three more shires affected by cyclone Narelle.

The Shires of Ashburton, Upper Gascoyne and Yalgoo, and those who live within them, are now eligible for recovery assistance measures through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, building on assistance already made available to the Shires of Exmouth, Carnarvon and Shark Bay.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said that extending financial assistance for small businesses and families would ensure that Western Australians have access to the support they need to quickly recover.

“We want to see communities get back on their feet as soon as possible,” she said.

“Recovery takes time, however this funding will allow individuals and families who need assistance to meet their immediate and essential needs which is so important in times like this.”

The governments said that the shires had not only sustained road damage, but additional property damage had been reported in Onslow, as well as impacts to the pastoral sector in the Upper Gascoyne.

Affected residents can access wellbeing services and financial assistance to replace essential household items and undertake minor home repairs. This financial support is means‑tested and requires evidence of damage.

Interest rate subsidies are also available for directly impacted small businesses and primary producers, as well as freight subsidies for primary producers. Assistance for local and State Government agencies to repair essential public assets that have been damaged is also available.

WA Emergency Services Minister Paul Papalia said, having the region, he’d seen first-hand the significant damage caused.

“The resilience shown by communities hit hard by this event and their determination to recover has been uplifting,” he said.

“As we continue to assess the situation on the ground and engage with affected communities, we are forming a better understanding of the impacts and their recovery needs.”