Published: 13 January 2023
Tourism WA is working closely with tourism organisations and operators on-the-ground in the Kimberley, to understand the immediate and longer-term needs of the sector following severe flooding in the region.
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie crossed into Western Australia on December 28, 2022, bringing widespread rainfall and causing major flooding on the Fitzroy River.
Tourism WA Managing Director Carolyn Turnbull said Tourism Western Australia’s thoughts were with everyone in the region, including tourism operators and their friends, families, and the broader community.
“Like all West Australians, I have been shocked and saddened by the severe flooding that has devastated Fitzroy Crossing and other parts of the Kimberley region,” Ms Turnbull said.
“On behalf of the entire team at Tourism Western Australia, I’d like to extend my deepest sympathy to all those impacted by this terrible event.
“Tourism WA is committed to supporting the Kimberley’s tourism industry and we will continue to work closely with local tourism organisations and relevant authorities to help operators through this difficult time, and to identify the immediate and longer-term needs of tourism businesses across the region.”
Support is available. Please see more information below:
- Residents in the shires of Derby/West Kimberley, Broome, Wyndham-East Kimberley and Halls Creek can now access flood assistance. The jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) provides emergency assistance, including covering temporary living expenses and housing repair costs. Find out more here.
- The Department of Communities is providing support to individuals and families. To access help, phone the Disaster Response Hotline on 1800 032 965 or email emergencyservices@cpfs.wa.gov.au.
- Small businesses affected by flooding can access financial aid. More information is available from the Small Business Development Corporation.
- The Commonwealth Government is supporting those affected by the floods through short term allowance. More information is available on Services Australia.
- The Lord Mayor’s Distress Relief Fund is open to donations, with the funds raised to help those affected. Learn more, or donate, here.
- For more information on the emergency services response, visit the Department of Fire and Emergency Services.
- For additional information or support for operators, visit the Small Business Development Corporation's website.
For regular updates relevant to the tourism industry in the Kimberley, operators can subscribe to the newsletter of the area’s Regional Tourism Organisation, Australia’s North West (ANW). Sign up for the ANW tourism industry newsletter by emailing info@australiasnorthwest.com.