The Australian Government has activated the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) and Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) to support those heavily affected by Tropical Cyclone Seroja in Western Australia.
Minister for Emergency Management, David Littleproud, said support through the AGDRP and DRA was now available in the local government area of Northampton.
"It's vital that those affected by this terrible event can quickly regain their dignity and put food on the table," Minister Littleproud said.
"The AGDRP is a one-off, non-means tested payment designed to do exactly that. It provides payments of $1,000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children who have been seriously affected.
"And the DRA provides a short-term income support payment for those whose livelihoods have been hit.
"Our first concern is for the safety and needs of those directly affected, particularly those whose homes have been extensively damaged or destroyed."
Minister for Government Services, Linda Reynolds, said Services Australia had been on standby to assist in disaster affected areas.
"People can contact Services Australia to claim disaster assistance from 8:00am, Wednesday 14 April-the fastest and easiest way to claim is over the phone by calling 180 22 66," Minister Reynolds said.
"There may be some disruption at Services Australia service centres in affected areas over coming days. We ask that people who use these services to access them via online or over the phone where possible. I urge people to heed local emergency services warnings and do not travel unless safe to do so."
Services Australia Disaster Assistance phone lines are open from 8:00am to 5:00pm local time, Monday to Friday. For more information on support available, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster.
People eligible for DRA can access income assistance for up to 13 weeks, equivalent to the maximum rate of Jobseeker Payment or Youth Allowance.
Equivalent financial assistance will also be available to eligible New Zealand citizens ('non-protected' Special Category Visa, subclass 444 holders) affected by Tropical Cyclone Seroja.
The Australia Government will continue assessing the impacts of the disaster and will offer further support if necessary.
More information on Australian Government disaster assistance is available at www.disasterassist.gov.au.
