As the new week starts, individuals and businesses along the East Coast continue with a mammoth cleanup following the devastating 2022 flood event.
NSW and QLD State and Federal Governments are starting to release financial assistance packages for those affected by the 2022 flood disaster.
NSW and South East Queensland Floods – Financial Assistance
Who is eligible for financial assistance?
Assistance is available for eligible applicants who reside in the below NSW or South-East Queensland Local Government Areas.
Financial Assistance for Individuals
Australian Disaster Recovery Payment
The Disaster Recovery Payment is a lump sum amount for those in the Local Government Areas that have been affected by this natural disaster.
Eligible applicants will receive $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child if your home has been severely damaged or destroyed, or you’ve been seriously injured. It is not for minor damage or inconvenience and applicants can choose to receive as a lump sum or over two instalments.
In order to claim the disaster recovery payment, you must reside in one of the identified Local Government Areas and have sufficient evidence such as photos to support your claim.
New Zealand residents residing in Australia can also check for eligibility.
Application deadline: 3rd September, 2022
How to apply: Applications are made directly through MyGov. If you do not have an account you will need to set one up to apply.
- Find out more about the NSW Disaster Recovery Payment
- Find out more about the QLD Disaster Recovery Payment
Australian Disaster Recovery Allowance
The Disaster Recovery Allowance is for those who have lost income as a direct result of the February 2022 floods. This is short-term income assistance for up to 13 weeks, paid from the date your income was affected. It is important to note this is a taxable payment.
Eligible applicants will receive the maximum equivalent rate of JobSeeker or Youth Allowance payments, depending on your circumstances.
Eligibility requirements include you:
- were 16 years or older at the time of the floods
- are an Australian resident or hold an eligible visa
- work or live in an affected Local Government Area (LGA)
- lost income as a direct result of the storms and floods
- earn less than the average Australian weekly income in the weeks after you had this income loss.
New Zealand residents residing in Australia can also check for eligibility.
You will need to provide evidence of your loss of income including payslips for the 4 weeks prior to the event, bank statements or a letter from your employer.
Application deadline: 3rd September, 2022
How to apply: Applications are made directly through MyGov. If you do not have an account you will need to set one up to apply.
- Find out more about the NSW Disaster Recovery Allowance
- Find out more about the QLD Disaster Recovery Allowance
NSW Disaster relief grant
If your home or essential household items have been destroyed or damaged by a natural disaster, you may be eligible for a disaster relief grant. This grant helps families to recover from the effects of the disaster and reclaim a basic standard of living. This grant is not to replace insurance.
You may be eligible if it is less then 4 months since the disaster and:
- your primary place of residence was damaged by a natural disaster
- you do not have insurance for the damage
- you are a low-income earner
Your eligibility may be affected if:
- a lack of maintenance caused the damage
- the damage is cosmetic
- it is not essential to living in a safe and habitable home.
Application deadline: Must be no more than 4 months from date of disaster
How to apply: Call 13 77 88. You will also need proof if income, home loan or rent repayment details, proof of assets and insurance details.
Financial Assistance for NSW Businesses
Financial support is available for businesses or not-for-profit organisations impacted by the NSW storms and floods of January to March 2022.
Information regarding this support is still pending however businesses can register to be notified when more information becomes available.
If you have been affected by the 2022 Flood Disaster and require counselling assistance, please call the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line 1800 018 444.
