Returning from fire ravaged Corryong in Victoria’s North East, Minister for Health Greg Hunt offered both his, and the local community’s thanks to all who worked together to combat the recent, devastating fire fronts.
“While thanking the local community, we have been able to focus on the mental health and physical support for local families, farmers and communities,” Minister Hunt said.
“Federal Government, working with state governments and local communities, is providing all the necessary resources to fight the fires and to ensure individuals and communities get the support they need to recover.”
Speaking about the Health Portfolio, Minister Hunt said more mental health support services are being provided to firefighters, emergency personnel, individuals and communities impacted by the ongoing bushfire disaster.
“Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced an initial $76 million will fund free counselling sessions, extra Medicare and tele-health consultations, an expansion of headspace services for young Australians, and community recovery initiatives,” Minister Hunt said.
“Our Government’s response will help assist with distress counselling and mental health support for individuals, families and communities, including frontline personnel, impacted by the ongoing bushfire emergency.
“In terms of military assistance, our 6,500 ADF personnel and reservists have been working with state and territory authorities since September 2019 in response to Australia’s bushfire crisis. This support will continue for as long as needed.
“Joint Task Force (JTF) 646 continues to work with the Victorian Government to return 500 residents to Mallacoota from Melbourne and East Sale on Air Force fixed wing aircraft. Rotary wing aircraft continue to deliver fodder to areas of need, with two Australian and two Singaporean CH-47 Chinook helicopters also operating from RAAF Base East Sale to provide support to firefighting operations and humanitarian assistance to remote and isolated communities.
Minister Hunt said the ADF efforts are now supported by over 300 international military representatives, including 90 New Zealand Defence Force members, 100 Papua New Guinea Defence Force members, almost 50 Republic of Singapore Air Force members and 70 Japan Self-Defence Force members.
“Our Government and our community thank all these nations for their support,” he said.
If you would like more information on current programs, key contacts and Australian Government financial assistance options for bushfire victims, visit https://www.liberal.org.au/bushfires
