Australians impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred can begin claiming Centrelink’s Disaster Recovery Allowance today, which provides financial relief for lost income. Applications for this allowance will open at 2 pm AEDT through the myGov platform.
Prime Minister’s Statement
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the activation of financial assistance to support those directly affected by the devastating cyclone. He reassured communities facing these hardships, stating, “We’ve got your back and will support you through the recovery.”
What Is the Disaster Recovery Allowance?
The Disaster Recovery Allowance is a 13-week income support program designed to assist those whose earnings have been disrupted due to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
This aid is available to workers and sole traders who have either lost all or part of their income because of the cyclone’s effects, such as business closures or workplace shutdowns.
Eligibility Criteria for the Disaster Recovery Allowance
To qualify for the Disaster Recovery Allowance, your income must fall below the average Australian weekly income as a direct result of the disaster.
It is available to individuals who are 16 years or older and reside or work in any of the 31 affected areas in South-East Queensland and Northern New South Wales.
Eligible Areas in Queensland:
- Brisbane
- Fraser Coast
- Gold Coast
- Gympie
- Ipswich
- Lockyer Valley
- Logan
- Moreton Bay
- Noosa
- Redland
- Scenic Rim
- Somerset
- Southern Downs
- Sunshine Coast
Eligible Areas in New South Wales:
- Armidale
- Ballina
- Bellingen
- Byron
- Clarence Valley
- Coffs Harbour
- Dungog
- Glen Innes Severn
- Kempsey
- Kyogle
- Lismore
- Mid-Coast
- Nambucca
- Port Macquarie-Hastings
- Richmond
- Tenterfield
- Tweed
- Lord Howe Island and nearby islands within a 3 Nautical Mile radius
Eligibility Check
You can verify your eligibility by visiting the Services Australia website.
How Much Financial Support Can You Receive?
The allowance is paid based on your circumstances, either at the JobSeeker or Youth Allowance rates. For most, the maximum amount is the JobSeeker rate, which is $1,007 per fortnight.
Maximum Payment Breakdown:
| Allowance Type | Fortnightly Payment | Maximum 13-Week Payment |
|---|---|---|
| JobSeeker Payment | $1,007 | $6,545 |
This means, if you remain unemployed due to the cyclone for the full 13-week period, the maximum support you could receive is approximately $6,545.
How to Make a Claim
Starting Tuesday, March 11 at 2 pm AEDT, eligible individuals can apply for the Disaster Recovery Allowance through the myGov website.
For any claim assistance, you can reach out to the Australian Government Emergency Information Line at 180 22 66.
Other Available Support
In addition to the Disaster Recovery Allowance, both Queensland and New South Wales have introduced additional emergency financial aid:
- $180 for individuals or up to $900 per family to assist with essential needs such as food, medicine, clothing, and temporary accommodation.
- Queensland applications are already open, and New South Wales applications will start on March 12.
Several major banks have also stepped in to support the affected communities, with NAB offering $1,000 disaster relief grants to impacted customers.
Disaster Support Payment Status
The government has currently activated the Disaster Recovery Allowance for workers, but it has not yet rolled out the previously considered Disaster Relief Payment of up to $1,000.
The Disaster Recovery Allowance is an essential lifeline for Australians affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, offering up to 13 weeks of income support to help individuals and sole traders get back on their feet.
With the application process now open via myGov, eligible Australians in Queensland and New South Wales can access this crucial support. The government, along with banks and local authorities, is committed to providing the necessary resources to aid in recovery.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Disaster Recovery Allowance?
You must be at least 16 years old and live or work in one of the designated affected areas in South-East Queensland or Northern New South Wales. Your income must have dropped due to the cyclone.
How much can I receive from the Disaster Recovery Allowance?
You could receive up to $1,007 per fortnight, depending on your circumstances. If you are eligible for the maximum payment, you could receive around $6,545 over 13 weeks.
How can I apply for the Disaster Recovery Allowance?
Applications can be made via the myGov website starting at 2 pm AEDT on March 11, 2024. If you need assistance, call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line at 180 22 66.
Is there any other financial support available?
Yes, additional financial aid includes $180 for individuals and up to $900 per family for emergency expenses like food, clothing, and temporary accommodation. NAB is also offering $1,000 disaster relief grants.
