Jointly funded disaster assistance by the governments has been activated for communities impacted by the Victorian floods and storms that commenced on Christmas Eve, 2023.
The assistance is available for communities and councils within 17 registered local government areas, including Benalla Rural City, Campaspe Shire and Mitchell Shire.
Further councils may be added in the coming days.
Eligible community members whose homes have been impacted by the Victorian floods and storms can access emergency relief assistance through the Personal Hardship Assistance Program (PHAP) led by the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.
You are eligible for a relief payment if you have unmet immediate relief needs and your principal place of residence is, or was, in an evacuation warning area, and the floods or storms have damaged your home, or your home has flooded above the floor.
Assistance under the PHAP includes a one-off payment of $640 per adult and $320 per child up to a maximum of $2240 per eligible family to help cover the costs of essentials such as food, clothing, medication and accommodation.
Payments are a fixed amount for each member of a household and are not calculated based on how much money you earn.
“We’re working hand-in-hand with the Commonwealth Government to make this funding available, for community members and councils who need support during this incredibly difficult time,” Victorian Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes said.
“By making emergency relief assistance available, it goes some way to help with the immediate needs of Victorians who in many cases are still recovering from previous significant emergency events in recent years.”
Support from the governments will also provide funding for local governments’ counter-disaster operations.
If you think you may be eligible for a relief payment, visit an Emergency Relief Centre or call your local council.
If your business has been impacted, refer to your insurance policies or contact your local council for support.
Information on disaster assistance is available on the Federal Government’s website at disasterassist.gov.au and the VicEmergency website at emergency.vic.gov.au/relief
Also this week, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank launched the 2024 Victorian Flood Appeal to help support Victorian communities affected by recent flooding on Thursday, January 11.
The initial relief support will include assistance at community facilities, ensuring food security and supporting volunteer activities.
Funds will also be used for medium and long-term recovery and resilience.
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank chief customer officer for consumer banking Richard Fennell said the bank was always ready to support customers and communities in times of need.
“Our thoughts are with the locals across the affected Victorian regions, many having dealt with devastating floods less than two years ago,” Mr Fennell said.
“We understand many Australians are dealing with cost-of-living pressures at the moment, but for those who are able to help, I urge you to donate to our 2024 Victorian Flood Appeal.
“All contributions will provide important support in the recovery efforts in the immediate aftermath of this event and in the medium and long term.”
People wishing to support these communities are encouraged to donate directly to the 2024 Victorian Flood Appeal.
Donations can be made online or at your local Bendigo Bank branch.
All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.
Up-to-date information on changing flood conditions can be found on the VicEmergency website.
Lifeline’s 24/7 telephone crisis support service is available on 13 11 14.
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