Extra Flood Relief For Local Councils

Thu 14 April 2011

The Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan today announced $360,000 additional support for eight flood-affected councils during a visit to northern Victoria.

While speaking to representatives of the Loddon Campaspe and the Murray River Groups of Councils about government priorities in the region, Mr Ryan said $360,000 in various Volunteer Management Capacity Grants would be made available to fund further flood recovery efforts in the region.

“This funding will provide assistance to local communities critically affected by floods, to sustain their volunteer efforts and to help build a stronger support base,” Mr Ryan said.

Grants will be provided to Gannawarra Shire Council, Buloke Shire Council, Mount Alexander Shire Council, Central Goldfields Shire Council, Loddon Shire Council, Campaspe Shire Council, Swan Hill Rural City Council and Mildura Rural City Council.

Mr Ryan said reports from local councils had shown critically-affected local government areas were in need of support to manage local volunteering efforts in the flood aftermath.

“Volunteers play a vital and commendable role in short-term emergency recovery efforts, as well as longer-term community rebuilding,” Mr Ryan said.

Mr Ryan today also discussed a number of integrated major projects for the Loddon Campaspe and Murray River regions, including the progress of Regional Strategic Plans and the benefits of the Government’s new Regional Growth Fund.

“The government is absolutely committed to working with regional communities to identify their priorities and vision for the future,” Mr Ryan said.

Mr Ryan said the Regional Growth Fund offered a range of programs that would strengthen local communities, improve infrastructure and diversify the economy.

For information about the range of floods assistance available to Victorian communities, please visit dhs.vic.gov.au