Joint media release with the Hon Jeremy Rockliff MP
The Australian and Tasmanian Governments are working together to support communities affected by ongoing storms and flooding. All 29 Local Government Areas have been affected by the wild weather, with thousands of Tasmanians impacted by power outages and flood damage.
Jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) have been activated, enabling support to be provided to local communities and councils as they commence recovery efforts.
The activation of the DRFA allows a suite of jointly-funded grants to be made available including Emergency Assistance Grants for Tasmanians who have been impacted by flood waters or who have become isolated due to associated road closures and are in need of food, water and essential items.
It also allows for an Emergency Food Grant Fund, providing $350 payments for households that have gone without power for at least 72 hours.
Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the Australian and Tasmanian Governments were committed to supporting communities through the recovery process.
"This is an ongoing event, and it will be some time before we know the full impacts, but it is already clear that this has been a serious disaster felt by many Tasmanians, businesses and communities," Minister McAllister said.
"The Albanese Government is working closely with the Rockliff Government to provide grants to Tasmanians who have had to evacuate or have had extended time without power.
"It has been an incredibly difficult time and I want to acknowledge the brave work of first responders and everyday Tasmanians.
"The Australian Government stands ready to provide further support as recovery needs become clear, and will continue to work hand in glove with the Tasmanian Government as the damage is assessed."
Premier of Tasmania, Jeremy Rockliff, thanked the hundreds of frontline responders for their efforts in keeping Tasmanians safe.
"These hardworking Tasmanians have been working around the clock to protect homes from wind and flood damage, and restoring power to over 150,000 homes and businesses," Premier Rockliff said.
"It is during these times that Tasmanians come together, and answer to the call to support their neighbours, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to every one of these workers.
"The Tasmanian Government responded quickly to support the community, and I thank the Australian Government for its commitment to Tasmanians in the recovery process.
"We will continue to work with the local Governments to understand their recovery needs, and the impacts on essential public infrastructure."
Information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website and the Tasmanian Government TasRecoverywebsite.
