Senator the Hon Murray Watt
Minister for Emergency Management
Australian Government disaster payments are now available to eligible residents in five additional local government areas (LGAs) affected by the severe storms and flooding that continue to impact large areas of New South Wales.
The additional LGAs are Kempsey, Narromine, Oberon, Port Macquarie-Hastings and Strathfield, bringing the total number of eligible LGAs to 42.
The one-off Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment of $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child is available to people who live in those LGAs and who have suffered a significant loss as a result of the floods, including a severely damaged or destroyed home or a serious injury. The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment is a non-means tested, tax-exempt payment.
The Disaster Recovery Allowance has also been made available to assist employees and sole traders who experience a loss of income as a direct result of a major disaster and is payable for a maximum of 13 weeks. The Disaster Recovery Allowance is a taxable, fortnightly payment.
Equivalent financial assistance will also be available to eligible New Zealand citizens (‘non-protected’ Special Category Visas, subclass 444 holders) affected by the floods.
Residents can claim support through myGov. Anyone needing assistance in claiming should contact the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66.
The Australian Government Emergency Information Line is available Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
