Free legal help available for Great Southern residents after wild weather

Great Southern residents grappling with the widespread destruction of Sunday’s freak storm are being urged to access free help through Legal Aid WA.

Anyone affected by the storm who may be facing issues making insurance claims or dealing with disputes, mortgage stress, housing complications, financial hardship, housing or tenancy complications, or replacement of important documents, is urged to use the service.

LAWA director of civil law Gemma Mitchell said it was an “extremely distressing time” for people affected by the storm.

“When someone has been impacted by a natural disaster, understandably legal matters are usually not their first priority,” she said.

“However, in the days and weeks that follow, legal issues do arise, and Legal Aid WA is here to assist.”

Ms Mitchell said negotiations could become complicated when neighbours had to make decisions about properties and fencing.

“This is where LAWA can step in and support people through difficult situations that they normally wouldn’t have experienced,” she said.

For help, contact the Legal Aid WA Infoline on 1300 650 579 or email naturaldisasters@legalaid.wa.gov.au.