The South Australian Government has announced a $28 million support package to address the widespread impacts of the harmful algal bloom affecting the state’s coastline and communities.
The package – jointly funded by the State and Federal Governments – was signed off by the State Government’s Emergency Management Committee of Cabinet this week.
The comprehensive funding includes industry support, science and research, new communications and support for communities and coastal clean-up.
Premier Peter Malinauskas said the funding delivers a “deliberately calibrated suite of measures”, targeting areas where support is needed most.
“This represents the next stage of our response to this developing natural disaster,” he said. “We stand ready to deliver additional support if and when it is needed.”
However, Opposition Leader Vincent Tarzia criticised the support as insufficient. “Providing eligible businesses merely $10,000 falls far short… Some fishermen haven’t caught anything in 30 or 40 days,” he said.
The State Government says it remains open to delivering additional support as the situation evolves.
