Joint media release with the Hon Anthony Albanese MP and Peter Malinauskas MP
The Australian and South Australian governments will provide disaster assistance in nine South Australian local government areas (LGAs), as increasing Murray River flooding affects large parts of South Australia.
The assistance for individuals and families will be available through the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for the flood event that started on 15 November 2022.
The nine LGAs eligible for funding are Alexandrina, Berri Barmera, Coorong, Karoonda East Murray, Loxton Waikerie, Mid Murray, Murray Bridge, Pastoral Unincorporated Area and Renmark Paringa.
Under DRFA, assistance will be available for clean-up activities and support to state agencies and councils to deliver counter disaster operations, including sandbagging and the construction of temporary levees to prevent inundation of residential properties and critical infrastructure assets.
The joint funding will also provide:
- Personal Hardship grants: one-off payments of $400 per adult and $140 per child (with a maximum of $1000 per family) to individuals and families/couples in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, to meet needs such as purchasing food, clothing and medical supplies.
- Accommodation grants: up to two weeks emergency accommodation for individuals and families unable to return to their homes (due to damage, road closures etc.), or for financial support for those unable to return to their homes more than two weeks after the disaster.
This joint support will also be complemented by a South Australian Government support package, and the State Government will also appoint a Community Recovery Coordinator to support the coordinated recovery effort across the impacted regions.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said both levels of government will continue to work together closely to ensure appropriate support is available to communities.
"This is an ongoing disaster facing communities all along the Murray River and people are dealing with the loss and hardship that is brought on by these flood events. We will continue to stand alongside them," Minister Watt said.
"I'd encourage anyone in these LGAs, who has been impacted by the severe weather, to contact the state hotline and see what kind of support they may be eligible for."
Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas said the government acted swiftly to establish disaster funding for those already dealing with the onslaught that's coming down the river, as well as those who may be impacted in the coming weeks.
"We know the rising floodwaters are causing distress and damage to many South Australians' lives and livelihoods, from families to tourism operators and primary producers," Premier Malinauskas said.
"I would like to also acknowledge the amazing efforts of local volunteers, community members and emergency services personnel, who have sacrificed hours and hours of their time to help their fellow South Australians prepare for and respond to the floodwaters."
For information about the support available, contact the South Australian Relief hotline on 1800 302 787.
Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website.
