Message from Knox Council.
Support is available for residents still being impacted by power outages and storm damage. Mayor Lisa Cooper urged affected residents to contact Council to discuss their individual circumstances and what help they need.
“The storm that wreaked havoc across Melbourne’s outer east and beyond to Gippsland last week has left a trail of chaos and destruction,” Cr Cooper said.
“Relative to our neighbours in Maroondah and Yarra Ranges we’ve been very lucky in Knox but there are still an estimated 800 residents without power, and many people have sustained devastating damage to their homes and cars.
“Our thoughts are with our residents and neighbours who have been displaced by damage caused to their homes and extended power outages.
“Footage of the devastation in the Dandenongs is a stark reminder of how ferocious this storm was, and it’s hard to comprehend how more lives were not lost. For this we are so very thankful.
“Thank you to everyone who has looked out for their neighbours and friends during this time. Its been heartening to hear all the stories of generosity and care for each other. Its this community spirit and resilience that will help us overcome all the challenges that have been thrown at us this past 18 months.
“Our teams have been assisting residents who can’t go and stay with family or friends, and a number of residents have been relocated or provided with assistance to meet their individual needs.
“Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers from the SES and CFA who have worked tirelessly for days on end to restore access to the worst hit areas.
“Thank you also to our staff who worked through the night and for days after the storm clearing damage to trees in our streets and parks.
“My fellow councillors and I have been deeply saddened by what we’ve seen and the stories we’ve heard. The trauma of this past week’s events will stay with the people who experienced these events first hand for some time.
“Please reach out for the help you need. Your community is here to help you in your time of greatest need,” Cr Cooper said.
Learn more about support during power outages
If you are still without power and can’t go and stay with family or friends please call us on 9298 8000 to discuss your circumstances. If you know anyone who needs support please tell them to call us to get the help they need.
Emergency relief assistance is also available from the Victorian Government. Personal hardship assistance payments are available to people whose homes are damaged or destroyed and are unhabitable.
Payments of up to $560 per adult and $280 per child (up to a maximum of $1960 per eligible family) are distributed via a prepaid debit card that can be used to make purchases via EFTPOS or withdraw cash from bank ATMs.
Find out more about personal hardship assistance payments here.
