The Federal and South Australian Government will provide more support to South Australian communities devastated by bushfires, as they look to rebuild and recover.
Primary producers and small businesses on Kangaroo Island and in the Adelaide Hills can now access grants to help them get back on their feet.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said assistance is being provided under the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
“South Australia, particularly the Kangaroo Island and Adelaide Hills communities, have faced devastating losses. The bushfire threat is not over yet, but we will be there, backing the communities every step of the way as they rebuild and recover,” said the Prime Minister.
“This funding will provide grants of up to $10,000 to impacted small businesses, and $15,000 to primary producers and farmers. This will give businesses and families the immediate assistance they need to begin rebuilding.
“We have also deployed a force of 121 ADF engineers, logistics specialists and personnel to Kangaroo Island to help with immediate relief and clean-up.”
Premier Steven Marshall said the State Government is committed to rebuilding the communities affected by these devastating bushfires.
“We are acting swiftly, focusing initially on the engine room of these communities, primary production and small business, and this investment will help jump-start the recovery of both Kangaroo Island and Cudlee Creek,” said Premier Steven Marshall.
“We want these communities back on their feet and flourishing as soon as possible.”
“Despite the tragic circumstances, the people I meet on the ground are determined to recover and rebuild, and we are working with the federal and local governments to provide the support needed.”
Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said we are seeing the largest domestic mobilisation of the Defence Force in our nation’s history, as our serving men and women respond to the devastating bushfires.
“A military water purification system has been flown to Kangaroo Island from RAAF Base Amberley in Brisbane. It can create 25,000 litres of potable water each day, enough for the island’s population, and this water will be distributed by the ADF.
“Army veterinarians and personnel are also treating injured and orphaned animals including koalas at the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park.”
Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud said supporting farmers and small businesses was a priority.
“This will help farmers and small business clean-up, repair damaged equipment and fencing, and replace stock,” Minister Littleproud said.
“Getting back to business is one of the best ways to recover.
“This support will make sure businesses can open and people are back to work sooner.
“When money flows around a community it can help to speed up the whole recovery.
“We will see this through together and further assistance will be made available if it is needed.”
