South Australia’s Local Government Association has today welcomed an additional $126.25 million of joint state and federal funding to aid the Riverland and Murraylands flood effort.
The LGA said all affected councils in these regions have played an integral role in preparing for and responding to this emergency, working closely with State Government authorities.
At the same time, the councils have provided ongoing support to their communities.
When River Murray water levels subside, the recovery effort will be considerable and the LGA is pleased $60 million of this latest funding package will be allocated to aid councils and Green Industries SA with waste management and clean up.
LGA President Dean Johnson said it’s vital all levels of government continue working together to assist impacted communities moving forward and praised the work already being done, particularly by councils.
“The local government sector has been active right throughout this crisis to support affected residents and businesses,” he said.
“Councils have carried out many important tasks including collaborating with key emergency management team stakeholders; managing road and land closures; undertaking levee remediation and regular ongoing monitoring; managing storm water impacts and amplifying emergency services messaging, amongst other activities.
“This is in addition to ensuring essential council services have been maintained where possible.
“This latest funding announcement is a further example of federal, state and local government coming together and sharing resources to support communities in need and help them recover from this significant flood event.”
Over 25 councils and regional LGAs have provided direct support to affected Riverland and Murraylands councils and the State Emergency Service to date.
The LGA has also played an active role throughout the emergency, representing the views of the impacted councils and the broader sector in State Emergency Centre briefings, facilitating resource sharing and holding relevant information sessions with impacted councils on key challenges.