Australians grappling with the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred can now apply for financial support through Centrelink, with payments of up to $6,500 available for individuals who have lost income due to the disaster. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the launch of the Disaster Recovery Allowance, aimed at supporting affected workers and sole traders in their recovery efforts.
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Government Response to Cyclone’s Impact
Starting from 2 PM AEDT today, Australians who have suffered income loss as a direct result of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred can apply for this crucial financial assistance via myGov. The initiative is designed to provide up to 13 weeks of income support, offering a lifeline to individuals and businesses that have been financially impacted by the cyclone.
Prime Minister Albanese reassured affected communities, saying, “My message to these communities in this difficult time is we’ve got your back and will support you through the recovery.”
Who Is Eligible for the $6,500 Disaster Recovery Payment?
To qualify for the Disaster Recovery Allowance, applicants must meet specific criteria, ensuring that those most in need can access assistance. The requirements are as follows:
- Residency: Applicants must live or work in one of the 31 disaster-affected areas across southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales.
- Age: Individuals must be 16 years or older.
- Income Loss: Applicants must have lost some or all of their income due to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
- Income Level: The applicant’s income must have dropped below the average Australian weekly earnings.
The allowance is intended to help individuals whose businesses were forced to shut down or whose workplaces closed due to the cyclone’s impact.
Full List of Eligible Areas
The following regions in Queensland and New South Wales are eligible for the Disaster Recovery Allowance:
Queensland:
- Brisbane
- Fraser Coast
- Gold Coast
- Gympie
- Ipswich
- Lockyer Valley
- Logan
- Moreton Bay
- Noosa
- Redland
- Scenic Rim
- Somerset
- Southern Downs
- Sunshine Coast
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 (including any islands within a 3-nautical-mile radius)
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How Much Can Applicants Receive?
The Disaster Recovery Allowance offers payments at either the JobSeeker or Youth Allowance rate, depending on the applicant’s specific situation. The maximum available payment is $1,007 per fortnight, with disbursements made fortnightly for up to 13 weeks, starting from the date income loss began.
This financial support can be a vital resource for those struggling to regain their financial footing after the devastation caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
How to Apply for the Disaster Recovery Allowance
Eligible individuals can easily apply for the Disaster Recovery Allowance online through the Services Australia website via myGov. The application process is straightforward, with payments being processed based on each applicant’s individual circumstances.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their claims as soon as possible to ensure timely assistance. With up to 13 weeks of income support available, affected individuals can start their recovery journey with the financial help they need.
In these challenging times, the Disaster Recovery Allowance serves as a vital safety net for those whose livelihoods have been disrupted by the cyclone, helping them rebuild their lives and businesses as they recover.
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