Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as responded to the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jasper in Far North Queensland by announcing additional financial support for those who have been affected by the calamity.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Albanese expressed the gravity of the situation, describing the devastation witnessed in the region as "horrific," as per Mail Online.
PM Albanese Declares Emergency Support in Queensland
Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape speaks during a press conference with Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Parliament House in Canberra on December 7, 2023. Australia signed a security deal with Papua New Guinea on December 7, bolstering ties to a key Pacific neighbour that has been courted persistently by China.
Acknowledging the distress and hardship faced by communities and individuals, Albanese announced emergency support measures during a press conference on Tuesday. He emphasized the government's commitment to standing alongside Queenslanders throughout the response and recovery phases.
To demonstrate solidarity and gain firsthand insights, Prime Minister Albanese disclosed his plans to travel with Queensland Premier Steven Miles on Thursday and Friday. This visit aims to provide direct support and empathy to those grappling with the aftermath of the flooding disaster.
Having received briefings from various stakeholders, including state ministers, local government officials, the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, and shire presidents, Albanese expressed gratitude for their collaborative efforts. He commended the resilience of the Australian people, citing stories of extraordinary efforts, such as those by a helicopter pilot known as "Magoo" and local hero Gavin Dear, a boatman and singer involved in daring rescues.
During the press conference, Prime Minister Albanese assured the public of ongoing support through the Australian Defence Force and announced one-off disaster payments starting Wednesday at 2 pm. These payments, amounting to $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child, are designed to assist those who suffered significant losses, including damage to homes or serious injuries.
Highlighting the importance of mental health awareness in the aftermath of such disasters, Albanese stressed the need to be "conscious" about the potential psychological impact on affected individuals. He expressed gratitude to the police and emergency services for their "inspirational" efforts in Far North Queensland, according to Sky News.
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Crisis Appeal for Cyclone-Hit Aboriginal Communities
Simultaneously, an emergency appeal has been launched for Aboriginal communities impacted by ex-Cyclone Jasper. The Gondwana Rainforest Trust initiated the appeal to aid in the flood recovery of the Wujal Wujal Aboriginal community and nearby areas.
Urgently seeking $100,000 for the initial response, the trust aims to support the Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation in conducting assessments and allocating resources as needed.
As rescue operations continue across Far North Queensland, footage from Queensland Police depicts emergency services utilizing lifeboats to rescue residents trapped in flood-affected areas. Prime Minister Albanese announced that applications for disaster recovery payments would open soon for individuals in the affected local government areas.
Despite ongoing challenges, including evacuations and damage assessments, there is a sense of relief among those affected. Cook Shire Mayor Peter Scott reported the arrival of Wujal Wujal residents in Cooktown, emphasizing their gratitude for finding a safe haven amid the chaos.
With the Australian Defence Force actively involved in evacuation efforts and floodwaters gradually receding, there is cautious optimism that the affected communities will begin the arduous journey toward recovery in the coming days. The government's financial assistance and concerted efforts from various agencies aim to expedite this process and provide much-needed relief to those grappling with the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jasper, SBS News reported.
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