Joint media release with the Hon Bill Shorten MP
More disaster support is now available for South Australian communities impacted by flooding from the Murray River.
The Albanese Government has extended Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) to eligible people in nine areas.
The LGAs are Alexandrina, Berri Barmera, Coorong, Karoonda East Murray, Loxton Waikerie, Mid Murray, Murray Bridge, Renmark Paringa and the Unincorporated Area of South Australia.
The Disaster Recovery Allowance is an income support that assists employees and sole traders who experience a loss of income as a direct result of a major disaster. People can receive this taxable payment for a maximum of 13 weeks.
Equivalent financial assistance is also available to eligible New Zealand citizens ('non-protected' Special Category Visas, subclass 444 holders).
People can find information about eligibility and how to apply on the Services Australia website.
The easiest way for people to claim is online through myGov. If people need additional support to claim this payments, they can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66.
People impacted by the floods can also pause or change their Centrelink debt repayments using the Money you owe service online in either their Centrelink online account, or Express Plus Centrelink mobile app. Alternatively, they can call 1800 076 072.
For information on all the assistance the Australian and respective state governments have made available to individuals, businesses and councils following the extensive recent flooding, visit the National Emergency Management Agency.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt:
The Albanese Government is working closely with the South Australian Government to make financial assistance support available to those communities who experience loss and disruption resulting from disaster events.
Together we have already provided hardship grants and temporary accommodation support for people in these communities, and this latest measure will help people who are unable to work to pay their bills and provide some relief as they get back on their feet.
We will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with all levels of government to get the right support to those who need it most.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Government Services, the Hon Bill Shorten:
Services Australia staff have been working hard to ensure people impacted by flooding in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania have been getting support they need as quickly as possible, and they will continue to do so for the people of South Australia.
I encourage people in these areas who've had their livelihood impacted by flooding to check their eligibility for payment on the Services Australia website.
