Victoria flood fund opens
Victorian flood victims have been invited to apply for $877 million in recovery funding from federal and state governments.
The state and federal governments have announced new funding for Victorians, while authorities warn the state’s flood disaster is far from over.
Victoria's Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes says businesses and not-for-profits in 56 of the state's 79 council areas can apply for grants of up to $50,000 to support recovery efforts, from the joint state-federal program worth $877 million.
“Flood-affected Victorians will get more help to continue their recovery with more than $152 million in further funding,” Ms Symes said.
People in any council areas are encouraged to apply too, as they may nonetheless be eligible.
Farmers will receive up to $75,000, sports clubs $5,000 and medium and large businesses directly impacted by floodwaters, $200,000.
Victorians can contact the Flood Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760 for more information.
The funding includes $20 million for councils to help Victorians who had no flood insurance, as well as $600 water bill rebates for Melbourne customers who had over-floor flooding.
Up to $22 million will be spent setting up 16 regional recovery hubs with access to vital services.
LegalAid, community legal centres and Aboriginal Legal Services will receive around $8 million to continue providing timely advice on people’s legal needs.
Aboriginal Controlled Community Organisations will get $2 million for culturally appropriate flood relief for Indigenous Victorians, while another $13 million will be spent on communications and information sessions.