Joint media statement - Disaster funding to deliver temporary accommodation for Kimberley flood displaced

The installation of temporary residential accommodation to meet the housing needs of people displaced by the Kimberley floods will be jointly funded through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

The unprecedented flooding in Western Australia's remote Kimberley region has caused significant damage to people's homes across eight communities in the Shire of Derby-West Kimberley.

The installation of temporary accommodation will enable residents to remain living on country while their homes are repaired or rebuilt.

The State Government is working with the community and Traditional Landowners to identify suitable accommodation options that meet the needs of the impacted communities.

Options being considered include a mix of temporary village-style accommodation blocks, modified short stay accommodation and reinvigorating hostels.

The multimillion-dollar joint Federal and State funding has been allocated to provide the short-to-medium term temporary accommodation and final costs will reflect the final arrangements and take up.

The program will be delivered by the WA Department of Communities in partnership with local communities.

Comments attributed to WA Premier Mark McGowan:

"The recovery and rebuild is complex and I want to thank the community for their understanding, particularly as the wet season continues to make repair works on the ground challenging.

"We want to ensure there is suitable accommodation that can be stood up in Fitzroy Crossing and Derby while repairs and rebuilds occur for this next period of time and these temporary accommodation options will deliver this."

Comments attributed to Federal Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt:

"The community has identified that temporary accommodation is a priority while the long process of repairing and rebuilding damaged homes is undertaken.

"The accommodation means flood-impacted residents from the Fitzroy Valley have the opportunity to continue living on country and remain connected with community."

Comments attributed to WA Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:

"The State Government is committed to a locally led recovery approach. Decisions about the final accommodation options and delivery model of the program will be made at the local level and subject to the agreement of Traditional Owners.

"While the rebuilding effort is expected to take some time, the State Government will continue to support the affected communities with their recovery."

Premier's office - 6552 5000

Emergency Services Minister's office - 6552 5800