Federal member for Fremantle, Melissa Parke MP, today welcomed the announcement of federal natural disaster assistance for Margaret River following the catastrophic bushfires which commenced on 23 November 2011.

"It is a mercy that no human lives were lost but the terrible damage nevertheless included the destruction of 40 homes and thousands of hectares of bushland in the Margaret River region," said Ms Parke, who grew up in the south west where her parents continue to run their apple orchard.

"The scorched coastal environment will take years to recover and there will have been significant loss of native fauna."

"The Commonwealth Government will continue to work closely with the Western Australian Government to ensure affected communities, primary producers and small businesses have the support they need."

Assistance includes:

• Personal hardship and distress assistance including:
• The provision of emergency assistance including emergency accommodation, food, essential clothing and other personal items – payments of up to $388 per eligible adult and up to $194 per eligible child on the 1st day of assistance (with reductions in payment levels on subsequent days)
• Temporary living expenses of up to $110 per day per adult/family in the metropolitan area and up to $150 per day per adult/family in country areas.
• Up to $10,000 - for the replacement of white goods and floors coverings.
• Up to $ 10,500 for essential repairs to make houses habitable
• Restoration of essential public assets for local councils
• Interest rate subsidies for loans of up to $150,000 for small businesses and primary producers; and
• Professional advice grants and freight subsidies for primary producers.

To apply for assistance or for more information, people who have suffered personal hardship and distress and businesses affected by the fires should contact the following agencies:

• Primary producers: Department of Agriculture and Food - www.agric.wa.gov.au or 1800 198 231
• Individuals and families: Department for Child Protection - 1800 032 965
• Small Business and other enquiries: FESA WA (08) 9323 9552

Commonwealth assistance will be provided to the Western Australian Government through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).