McGowan Government kicks off Lord Mayor's Distress Fund with $3 million pledge

• Multi-million dollar contribution towards Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund to support communities impacted by unprecedented floods
• State Government rescue and recovery efforts underway in impacted communities
• Additional financial support will be made available through the State-Commonwealth Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA)
  

The McGowan Government has announced a $3 million contribution to the Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund Appeal in support of communities impacted by unprecedented flooding generated by ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie.

The fund, which will be open to public donations next week, will assist impacted communities on the path to recovery from the devastating Fitzroy River floods - the worst in Western Australian history.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) is leading the McGowan Government's initial assistance and evacuation efforts in impacted communities.

More than 100 DFES staff and volunteers will travel to the region to provide support, with the current focus on immediate emergency response, evacuation, relocation, and resupply.

The contribution to the Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund Appeal will be followed by additional funding support separately through the State-Commonwealth Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

From Monday, 9 January 2023 the public will be able to donate to the Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund here: (appealswa.org.au).

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"This is unprecedented for the Kimberley region and has wrought devastating impacts on local homes, businesses and communities.

"I want to assure all those impacted by this once-in-a-century event that the State Government will work for as long as it takes to ensure these communities recover and rebuild.

"State Government agencies are working hard as part of our initial response and these efforts will continue in the coming weeks and months.

"I would like to thank everyone assisting with the response for their efforts and send my thoughts to all who have been impacted by the flooding."

Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:

"I want to thank all our first responders, emergency workers, volunteers and everyone in the community for their immediate efforts in the face of this disaster.

"I hope the State Government's initial contribution to the Lord Mayor's fund will encourage Western Australians to give what they can to support this appeal.

"This is just the beginning of what will be a major recovery and rebuilding effort as we work with the Commonwealth to deliver further financial and on-the-ground support."

Comments attributed to Member for Kimberley Divina D'Anna:

"Ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie has been absolutely devastating for our region and my thoughts are with all our communities at this very difficult time.

"The recovery process will take time, but I am proud that our communities have already demonstrated strong resilience and spirit and have no doubt together we will recover stronger than ever."

Premier's office - 6552 5000