THE federal and WA governments are activating disaster recovery assistance for communities impacted by severe thunderstorms in the Perth Hills region in February.

The City of Swan and shires of Chittering and Mundaring will receive assistance through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

On February 19, a damaging weather system developed along the west coast before moving across the Perth Hills, producing powerful microbursts in some areas.

In addition to storm debris, damage was caused to local roads and other important public infrastructure across the impacted region.

Disaster recovery assistance will help local governments repair roads and other public assets with Commonwealth and State funding available for the reimbursement of eligible costs.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the funding activated today would help councils recover and rebuild after the damaging storms.

“This includes repairing damage to the road network and ensuring community safety,” she said.

“The Australian and WA governments are working closely to ensure communities get the support they need to recover.”

Western Australian Emergency Services Minister Paul Papalia praised the co-ordinated response that helped impacted communities in their immediate recovery efforts.

“The severe and sudden nature of these thunderstorms presented significant challenges and caused concentrated damage,” Mr Papalia said.

“I’d like to commend the efforts of emergency services personnel who worked tirelessly to clear hazardous debris, repair critical infrastructure and provide assistance to affected residents.

“I also want to acknowledge the resilience of these communities and work to ensure they receive the support they need to recover.”