Flood affected communities to benefit from funding

River Murray communities affected by the floods of 2022-23 will benefit from more than $25 million.

The money will mainly go to programs aimed towards mental health, restoring communities and recreational assets, and increasing irrigation infrastructure.

This includes a $9 million council community and recreational asset restoration program, allowing councils to repair and restore community assets such as parks, playgrounds, public toilets, and cultural sites.

Murray Watt, the Federal Minister for Emergency Management, said the assistance measures supported the next stages of recovery.

“We’ve been listening to the River Murray communities to understand what we can provide to not just help them rebuild, but to thrive in the long-term recovery from the floods,” he said.

Further assistance for the lower River Murray reclaimed irrigation area would also be provided to help prepare for the future, he said.

A new flood recovery mental health support initiative will receive up to $1.3 million in funding.

The program will offer specialised mental health services to reduce long-term impacts and support wellbeing among residents affected by the floods.

The support comes in collaboration between the federal and state governments.

Clare Scriven, state Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, said communities which were leading the recovery effort with council and government support deserved all the assistance that could be provided.

“There is still an incredible amount of work to do to continue to recover from the devastating floods, and I’m very pleased to announce this additional support with Minister Watt,” she said.

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