New program to focus on mental health of communities affected by Kimberley floods

Communities impacted by the Kimberley floods will be able to access services and funding for activities to boost their mental wellbeing, in a joint initiative by the Albanese and Cook Governments. The Kimberley Floods Community Social Recovery Program aims to expand on-the-ground social support and services to assist with long-term recovery and community resilience. Jointly funded by the Albanese and Cook Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the $14 million program will provide assistance such as psychosocial support services, case management for individuals and families with complex needs and dedicate staff to provide legal assistance. It will also provide grants to enable the restoration and clean-up of operations for local service providers, community organisations and businesses, as well as supporting community recovery activities and events. Coordinated by the WA Department of Communities, the program will be supported by the WA Department of Justice, and the WA Department of Local Government Sport and Cultural Industries who will manage a Community Recovery Flexible Grants Program. Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said the program will help address an important aspects of disaster recovery and resilience. “We recognise the trauma experienced by everyone affected by this significant flood event, and understand that natural disasters can have lasting effects long after they’ve occurred,” Minister Watt said. “By helping the Cook Government to deliver these services, we are making sure those people struggling with their social well-being have access to the right type of support they need for the long term. “Importantly, this program will also allow people to identify and seek funding for activities and events that build community resilience — because we know that connected communities are resilient communities.” WA Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson said the record flooding in the West Kimberley earlier this year has seen a need for significant and legal support for affected individuals and communities. “While infrastructure losses after disasters are highly visible, the psychological and social impacts can be less obvious but just as significant,” Minister Dawson said. “That’s why we’ve been working closely with the Albanese Government to ensure impacted communities have access to culturally appropriate psychosocial support and grants for community-led recovery activities and events.” WA Community Services Minister Sabine Winton praised Kimberley locals who are leading the recovery on the ground. “Fitzroy Crossing has strong local leaders, who knew what’s best for their community,” Minister Winton said. “The Cook and Albanese Governments are committed to supporting them to deliver the social and emotional wellbeing programs that are critical to long term recovery.”