The Mickleham quarantine centre will be used a crisis accommodation for Victorians affected by widespread flooding, the state and federal governments have announced.
From Tuesday, October 18, 250 beds at the Donnybrook Road Centre fro National Resilience will open to help people whose homes have been inundated.
The state government announced earlier this month that the centre was no longer needed as a quarantine facility, with the shut down process beginning last week.
However, on Friday, October 16, Premier Daniel Andrews announced plans were under way to house flood victims at the centre.
Flood victims residing at the centre will be provided with food and support services on-site and remotely.
The centre has dedicated car parking onsite for residents, as well as a shuttle bus providing free regular transport to and from Craigieburn train station and the local shopping centre, as well as other short transport requests if residents need.
Residents will be free to moved around the facility and come and go as they see fit, while medical care will be provided on-site around the clock.
Charities will provide assistance with items like clothing that families may have had to leave behind or lost during the floods.
Responders on the ground in flood zones will help determine who is most in need of accommodation at the centre.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “We’re ensuring Victorians can have a safe roof over their heads immediately following a major flood event.”
“We have not hesitated to make the Centre for National Resilience available in this time of crisis.”
Mr Andrews said the state government wished it didn’t need to use the quarantine centre but was grateful the facility was available.
“Whether it’s crisis accommodation or financial support for families doing it tough, we’ll do everything we can to support Victorians while the waters are still rising, and long after they’ve receded.”
