Photo credit: Grant Schwartzkopff.
The State Government has secured more than 22,000 bed nights of accommodation in River Murray communities which can be used to provide short-term emergency housing for flood affected residents who have nowhere else to stay.
The government has committed $1.2 million to pre-book emergency accommodation through its Short-Term Emergency Accommodation Plan, providing up to 500 beds on a given night in a variety of types and locations to match expected demand as water levels rise.
The plan accounts for both a gradual increase of people seeking emergency accommodation, as well as sudden and unexpected events.
The emergency accommodation is being booked for individuals and families, and includes motels, powered caravan sites and cabins in river communities including Berri, Glossop, Waikerie, Barmera, Murray Bridge and Tailem Bend.
So far, 24 people have been booked into this accommodation after assessment at either the Mannum or Berri Emergency Relief Centres (ERCs).
In addition to the pre-booked accommodation, 16 fully self-contained Humanihuts are being erected at the Riverland Exhibition Centre and will be ready to receive up to 64 people for crisis accommodation this week.
The Exhibition Centre can also accommodate more than 200 caravans with power and ablutions.
The State Government has also secured 35 Minderoo recovery pods, which can be deployed as required to properties where a primary residence has been rendered unlivable.
The government has also taken lease over a fully accessible site that is suitable for people with mobility issues and care needs, should it be required.
A range of relief grants are also available at the ERCs, including Personal Hardship Grants, Private Rental Assistance, and Generator Grants to help people with their immediate needs.
Demand for ERC services has been steady, with more than 500 people through the doors at either Berri or Mannum since the centres opened.
“We continue to encourage people to make their own plans wherever possible. But be reassured, we have taken prudent steps to make sure people will be supported if they have nowhere else to go,” says Premier Peter Malinauskas.
“If your primary place of residence is flood-affected, you can be assessed to get assistance with emergency accommodation now through one of the Emergency Relief Centres at Mannum and Berri.
“I urge anyone in need of assistance or to inquire about grants to go to one of the Emergency Relief Centres and staff will be ready to help.”
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