Joint media statement - Disaster assistance following Exmouth flooding

Disaster assistance has been made available to help communities in the Shire of Exmouth recover from damage caused by severe flooding earlier this month.

Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud said torrential rain over 24-hours had caused significant flood damage to roads and infrastructure across the area.

"This was a serious disaster event that caused widespread disruption to local communities, and threatened life and property," Minister Littleproud said.

"Some travellers were left stranded, and at one point, residents were cut off from the town centre due to fast-moving floodwaters and road damage.

"The Australian Government is working closely with the Western Australian authorities to ensure the Shire of Exmouth recovers as quickly as possible from the floods."

Western Australian Minister for Emergency Services Reece Whitby said the deluge was heaviest in the northern part of the North West Cape and was unusual for this time of year; equivalent to about nine months' worth of rain in a 24-hour period.

"A swift response ensured travellers and residents received timely assistance, while flood areas and road traffic were managed and debris removed," Minister Whitby said.

"Financial assistance, through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, will enable communities in the Shire of Exmouth to rebuild vital infrastructure and minimise the impact on the local economy.

"The Australian and Western Australian governments will continue to monitor the impacts of this event and are ready to extend disaster assistance to those communities in need."

Information on disaster assistance is available on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website at https://www.disasterassist.gov.au/

Minister's office - 6552 6300