WA areas hit by cyclone a natural disaster

West Australian communities lashed by Tropical Cyclone Olwyn have been declared a natural disaster, triggering financial assistance.

The federal government says help will be provided to Ashburton, Carnarvon, Exmouth and Shark Bay.

Attorney-General George Brandis said the assistance would be provided through the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.

Mr Brandis said it was clear Cyclone Olwyn had had a significant impact on local economies, with some fruit plantations in the region completely destroyed.

He said the assistance would help families and communities in the northwest region to get back on their feet and ensure local industries could recover as soon as possible.