Emergency financial support for those impacted by Bunbury tornado

• Premier's Relief Payment available to Bunbury residents impacted by freak tornado
• Payments to provide immediate financial assistance for people in-need
• Up to $4,000 to pay for food, clothing, transport and emergency accommodation

Bunbury residents whose homes were destroyed or are considered uninhabitable following Friday's devastating tornado will be eligible for a $4,000 Premier's Relief Payment.

Residents whose homes suffered severe damage will be able to access a one-off $2,000 payment.

The weather event that struck the Bunbury region on Friday afternoon caused damage to over 100 homes, commercial buildings, an apartment block, the Bunbury Regional Prison as well as the South West Sports Centre, the Police and Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) and other essential public infrastructure.

Designed to provide immediate financial assistance to those impacted by emergencies, the Premier's Relief Payment helps to pay for food, clothing, personal effects, transport and emergency accommodation.

The Premier's Relief Payment will be available from today and will be managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services.

Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:

"This severe weather event has had a devastating impact on the Bunbury community and my thoughts are with those who have lost homes and property.

"My Government will do everything it can to support those impacted during this difficult time.  

"Today's announcement of immediate assistance will help to ease the financial burden for affected residents."

Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:

"The Cook Government's Premier's Relief Payment is a crucial support in the immediate aftermath of an emergency.

"The payment will help residents pay for food, accommodation, transport and clothes as they come to terms with the impact of this destructive weather event.

"Importantly, this is just one of the ways residents can access help, with emergency crews and support staff still on the ground responding to this situation."

Comments attributed to Bunbury MLA Don Punch:

"I know the people of Bunbury will rally to support those who have been impacted by this devastating weather event.

"My thoughts are with those who have had to leave their homes. We know the recovery process will take time, but this immediate financial aid will provide much-needed assistance in the short term.

"I am sure this payment will be most welcomed by local residents who've been impacted."