The Hon. Bill Shorten
Minister for Government Services
Senator the Hon. Murray Watt
Minister for Emergency Management
Australian Government support is flowing through to people impacted by the recent flood event in New South Wales, with Services Australia delivering $34 million in emergency assistance since yesterday.
More than 42,000 people have been supported with much-needed cash payments and income support, delivered directly into the pockets of individuals.
Since claims opened yesterday afternoon, Services Australia has paid more than 28,000 claims across the 23 eligible Local Government Areas (LGAs).
The overwhelming majority of the claims were submitted online through myGov.
Acting Minister for Government Services Amanda Rishworth said this highlighted the Australian Government’s commitment to supporting people through natural disasters.
“We’re making sure help is available where it’s needed most, and we know swift financial support is key.” Minister Rishworth said.
“I’d encourage everyone in those 23 Local Government Areas to check their eligibility online through the Services Australia website,” Minister Rishworth said.
“The fastest, simplest way to claim is online through myGov. Services Australia staff are also available to support people with their claim over the phone on 180 22 66.”
Emergency Management Minister Senator Murray Watt acknowledged this was a very emotional and financially difficult time for those impacted on the ground.
“We are committed to supporting people throughout their recovery journey and being as agile and responsive as possible during this extremely challenging time.
“By getting money out the door to help with things like for emergency accommodation and replacing food and clothing, we’re helping to address immediate needs after the floods.”
Eligible people can get $1000 per adult and $400 per child through the one off, non-means tested Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP).
The Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) is also available to support employees and sole traders who have lost income as a direct result of the floods. This taxable payment can be paid for up to 13 weeks.
The payments are currently available in the following LGAs: Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Camden, Campbelltown, Canterbury Bankstown, Central Coast, Cessnock, Fairfield, Georges River, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Kiama, Lithgow, Liverpool, Northern Beaches, Penrith, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Sutherland, The Hills, Wingecarribee, Wollondilly, and Wollongong.
Find more information about support available at recovery.gov.au. Information about how to claim can be found at servicesaustralia.gov.au/disasterevents.
