Political leaders, scientists and health experts will meet with communities affected by the ongoing algal bloom at a series of community forums across the state.

Port Elliot Surf Lifesaving Club hosted a ‘Sea-Sick’ live broadcast last night, Wednesday 6 August, with Channel 7Newspresenter Amelia Mulcahy, which featured a studio panel including Premier Peter Malinauskas and Chief Public Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier.

The state government will provide updates on the current response and recovery efforts at Victor Harbor on Tuesday 12 August.

It will also hold forums at Port Noarlunga and on Kangaroo Island, at dates to be announced.

The forums will also be an opportunity for people to ask questions and will allow the government to get firsthand accounts from affected communities. 

They will provide information on the latest science, public health advice, and support measures for affected communities and industries.

Communities will hear directly from Premier Peter Malinauskas, Deputy Premier Susan Close and other ministers, as well as scientific and public health experts including Chief Public Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier and Professor Mike Steer from the South Australian Research and Development Institute.

The Victor Harbor forum will be held at the Convention Centre, in McCracken, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Reserve a place via Humanitix.

Environment Minster Susan Close says it’s vital the state government hears directly from the communities being impacted by this unprecedented algal bloom affecting South Australia.

“In addition to hearing firsthand community experiences, the forums will provide opportunities for Government agencies to provide vital information about the work being done to respond to the algal bloom.

‘This is something that South Australia has not faced before on this scale, so it’s important that we work together as a community to ensure we are doing what we can to mitigate risks and reduce the impact of this naturally occurring event. 

“Community feedback will help to guide the recovery plan and how the state will continue to deal with the algal bloom in the future.”

A $28 million support package has been announced to support the response to the algal bloom.

Funded by the South Australian and Australian governments, it will go towards research, clean-up efforts, community support, industry help and public information.

South Australian small businesses impacted by the algal bloom are eligible for grants of up to $10,000, while hardest hit commercial fisheries and aquaculture licence holders can apply for up to $100,000 in support.

Business support representatives will attend the forums to provide one-on-one guidance and answer questions on what is available.

For more information, including government support and grants, and to register to attend a forum visit he dedicate algal bloom website.