In January 2023, remnants of Tropical Cyclone Ellie brought days of torrential rain and wind to northern Western Australia. The downpour caused the Fitzroy River to swell to record-high levels, inundating floodplains, damaging townships, and isolating riverside and Indigenous communities.
The following charities are working to provide on-the-ground assistance to those affected.
While the entities listed below are all known to APS, we do not conduct a detailed analysis of their financial position and governance ahead of their inclusion. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of the many organisations working in this space.
Foundation for Indigenous Sustainable Health (FISH)
ABN: 89 141 884 684
https://shop.fish.asn.au/collections/make-a-difference/products/fitzroy-crossing-kimberley-flood-donations
FISH works to break intergenerational cycles of trauma, poverty, and incarceration for Aboriginal people by addressing the socio-economic determinants of wellbeing (i.e., Education, Housing, Employment, and Justice) in a culturally secure and sustainable way. In partnership with its corporate and community supporters, FISH are currently providing relief to flood-affected communities by coordinating the distribution of donated women’s products, nappies and other essentials to the women’s refuge in Fitzroy Crossing. FISH also currently have a relief appeal, which is led by consultations with the community in how it is directed according to need.
Marninwarntikura Women’s Resource Centre (MWRC)
ABN 78 560 614 562
https://mwrc.com.au/pages/donations
MWRC provides support to Fitzroy Valley women and their families by encouraging safety and well-being; and fostering leadership and financial independence. It does this by providing activities, mentoring, support, access to culturally sensitive and respectful services, and advocacy with professional, ethical and enthusiastic staff. The MWRC have set up an appeal following the devastating 2023 January floods, which will be specifically directed to assisting women and children to rebuild their lives and homes following this event.
Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council
ABN 94 806 492 396
https://www.martuwarra.org/
The Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council is an Indigenous-led organisation and alliance of Elders from independent nations of the Fitzroy River Catchment in the Kimberley, Western Australia. Their work focuses on protecting the largest registered cultural heritage site in Western Australia, the Martuwarra River system. The Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council is actively working to support those affected by the uncharacteristic flood event in the region by accepting donations that will go directly to community member effected by this catastrophic flood event.
Other relief organisations
Many Australian aid and relief organisations are providing support for flood-affected communities around the country. Find out more here:
Last updated 17 January 2023