From today, financial help will be extended to residents in Camden, Wollondilly and Wingecarribee impacted by the current flooding disaster.  

The Commonwealth Government has activated the Disaster Recovery Payment and the Disaster Recovery Allowance to support communities in these regions.  

The Disaster Recovery Payment is a one-off, non-means-tested payment of $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child. It is available to eligible people in those affected local government areas who have suffered a significant loss, including a severely damaged or destroyed home or serious injury.  

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said the Australian Government has been swift to make financial help available because help is needed now. 

“We are closely monitoring the flood emergency, particularly as it continues to unfold in this region, and my heart goes out to those people whose lives are being devastated,” Mr Taylor said.

“We have made financial help available now because we know the economic impact of disasters like these are felt long after the flood water recedes. 

“There will be some very tough days and weeks ahead, particularly with more rain predicted for this area, and the clean-up and recovery process will take some time.” 

Disaster Recovery Allowance will also be provided in the same affected local government areas. DRA assists employees and sole traders who experience a loss of income as a direct result of a major disaster. DRA is payable for a maximum of 13 weeks and is taxable.

Equivalent financial assistance will also be available to eligible New Zealand citizens (‘non-protected Special Category Visa, subclass 444 holders) affected by the floods. 

Online claiming via myGov is available 24x7. The Australian Government Emergency Information Line is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm local time and this Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm local time. For more information on support available, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster.