Senator the Hon Scott Ryan today welcomed disaster assistance for residents living in the Melton local government area, in response to recent flooding.

Senator Ryan said the funding, announced today by Commonwealth Justice Minister Michael Keenan and Victorian Minister for Emergency Services Lisa Neville, would assist the City of Melton in ensuring it has the resources and support needed to recover from the impacts of the floods.

“The heavy rain saw the flooding of many of Melton’s waterways. I thank the responders from organisations like the SES for keeping the community safe during this wet weather,” Senator Ryan said.

“If you are a City of Melton resident who has been adversely affected by the recent floods, you may be eligible for relief assistance from the Commonwealth and Victorian governments.”

People seeking information on flood assistance should call the Victorian Emergency Recovery Information Line on 1300 799 232.

Counter Disaster Operations and Restoration of Essential Public Assets is also now available to allow the City of Melton to undertake certain counter disaster operations, clean-up activities and the restoration of damaged community infrastructure.

“This assistance will help agencies and the local council to clean up flood-affected homes and properties and help with the cost of restoring damaged public infrastructure, such as bridges and roads,” Senator Ryan said.

“This activation of assistance demonstrates the commitment of the Australian and Victorian Governments to support disaster affected communities.”

Information regarding disaster assistance available and eligibility can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au  and on the Vic Emergency website at www.emergency.vic.gov.au/relief.