Community forums to support Seroja rebuild issues

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Community members impacted by Cyclone Seroja have an opportunity to hear from building and regulatory experts at community forums being held in Kalbarri and Northampton next week.

Representatives from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services; Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety; Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage; Shire of Northampton; Legal Aid; and the Master Builders Association WA will be on hand to address community queries about rebuilding.

State Recovery Controller Melissa Pexton said the forums would be a great way for building industry representatives to provide much needed information to community members experiencing challenges with repairing and rebuilding their cyclone damaged properties.

“Having the industry representatives in the region to discuss the rebuilding process, contracts and licences, and the rights of the property owner will hopefully alleviate some of the frustration people are currently experiencing,” Ms Pexton said.

“It is also a great opportunity for the public to ask their questions to a panel of experts about issues they may be experiencing such as demolition permits, asbestos management and building approvals.”

Shire of Northampton CEO Garry Keeffe said with Kalbarri and Northampton having suffered significant property damage the forums were important for the community to get back on track.

“The communities in the Shire are struggling with rebuilding their properties due to a multitude of issues out of their control and by attending these forums they will come away informed and with their questions addressed,” Mr Keeffe said.

Details of community forums

Tuesday 7 December

6:30pm - 8:30pm

Northampton Community Centre
52 Harvey Road, Northampton

Wednesday 8 December        

1.30pm – 3.30pm
5.30pm – 7.30pm

Kalbarri Golf Club
Hasleby Street, Kalbarri

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Media Contact: DFES Media and Corporate Communications 9395 9543.