Government to support aid

By Lia Bichel
FLOOD affected residents will have much needed support from the State Government.
Premier Ted Baillieu visited Pakenham on Sunday to assess the flood damage and to assure residents they would get continuing support from the State Government.
Mr Baillieu thanked the SES for its work, asked residents to be patient during the clean-up process and urged people to be cautious near floodwaters.
“Obviously, we have experienced a significant amount of rainfall in the past 24 to 48 hours,” he said.
Grants of up to $25,950 are available through the Department of Human Services for people in extreme hardship and whose homes are uninhabitable.
The Baillieu Government authorised the emergency grants on Saturday and a comprehensive package to support flood-affected communities on Sunday.
The Insurance Council of Australia 24-hour hotline is 1300 728 228. To apply for grants call the SES Flood Information Line on 1300 842 737 or visit www.dhs.vic.gov.au/emergency. For flood assistance call the SES on 132 500.