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Cyclone Seroja: Federal Government extends disaster payments ahead of Scott Morrison’s Kalbarri visit

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Sarah IsonThe West Australian
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VideoThere have been 17 arrests for looting in the wake of Cyclone Seroja.

Support for West Australians affected by Cyclone Seroja has been extended by the Federal Government, with Scott Morrison set to tour the disaster zone today.

A total of 170 properties across the region have been destroyed or severely damaged, and another 491 have sustained moderate or minor damage.

Some 250 properties are still to be assessed.

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Emergency Management Minister David Littleproud announced the Australian Government Disaster Plan would be extended and provide further assistance to those affected by the tropical cyclone.

"The AGDRP provides a one-off payment of $1,000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children who have been seriously injured, lost their homes or whose homes have been directly damaged as a result of Tropical Cyclone Seroja," he said on Friday.

Damaged buildings are seen on April 12, 2021 in Kalbarri, Australia.
Camera IconDamaged buildings are seen on April 12, 2021 in Kalbarri, Australia. Credit: Yvonne McKenzie/Getty Images

The local Government areas covered by the package include Carnamah, Chapman Valley, Greater Geraldton, Mingenew, Morawa, Perenjori, Three Springs and Northampton.

Newly appointed Recovery Controller for Cyclone Seroja Melissa Pexton will tour the cyclone-affected areas with the Prime Minister later today.

The trio will visit Kalbarri, which bore the brunt of the storm.

An aerial view of damaged buildings at Pelican Shore Villas in Kalbarri after Cyclone Seroja.
Camera IconAn aerial view of damaged buildings at Pelican Shore Villas in Kalbarri after Cyclone Seroja. Credit: Getty Images

Minister for Government Services and WA Senator Linda Reynolds said Commonwealth staff were on the ground providing immediate support in WA.

But she warned there may be disruptions to Services Australia, which is coordinating the financial support.

"We ask that people who use these services access them online or over the phone where possible," she said.

West Australians affected by the cyclone and wanting to access the payments can call 180 22 66 between 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 5pm on the weekend.

With AAP

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