State government flood support

Families and individuals impacted during the Maribyrnong River flood are encouraged to access a one-off relief payment. (Star Weekly) 303501_17

The state government has announced a disaster relief payment to assist individuals and communities that are experiencing, or are likely to experience, hardship in meeting their relief needs as a result of flooding events across the state, including Maribyrnong residents.

One-off flood relief payments of $560 per adult and $280 per child are available for those who had been forced out of their homes to help individuals and families meet immediate and essential needs, like emergency shelter, food, clothing and personal items.

The state government has also planned to establish a Council Flood Support Fund as an initial measure to provide immediate payments of $500,000 to the 24 local government areas which have experienced the most profound flood damage, including Maribyrnong council.

Premier Dan Andrews said local councils have been on the frontline of recovery efforts.

“We’re giving them extra support so they can help their communities when they need it most,” he said.

“We’re at our best when we work together, every level of government is ready to stand with local communities as we repair the damage that’s been done.”

The Personal Hardship Assistance Program’s Emergency Re-establishment Assistance fund would also support Victorian families whose properties were hit the hardest beyond the initial payments for food and shelter – providing up to $42,250 for uninsured properties, helping to pay for clean-up, repairs, rebuilding and replacing household contents.

Details: emergencypayments.dffh.vic.gov.au