NSW Nationals Senator Perin Davey has welcomed financial assistance announced by the federal government, which will support people in the Hunter region, Mid-North Coast and surrounding areas who have been affected by the recent storms and flooding.
Support is now available in the local government areas of Cessnock City, Maitland City and Newcastle, as well as Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Hawkesbury, Kempsey, Lake Macquarie, Armidale, Bellingen, Central Coast, Mid-Coast, Nambucca Valley, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Penrith, Port Stephens and Tenterfield.
Senator Davey said it was devastating to see the loss of homes around the state.
“This assistance will ensure support is available for those who have suffered a significant loss, including a severely damaged or destroyed home and serious injury,” Senator Davey said.
“The Australian Government is monitoring the situation closely and stands ready to provide additional assistance as required.”
“This one-off payment is a non-means-tested payment of $1000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children.”
Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud said the government’s first concern was for the safety and needs of those directly affected, particularly those whose homes have been inundated by floodwaters.
‘It is clear that additional Australian Government assistance is needed to support the community to recover from this extraordinary weather event” Mr Littleproud said.
“Equivalent financial assistance will also be available to eligible New Zealand citizens
(‘non-protected’ Special Category Visa, subclass 444 holders) affected by storms and floods.”
Services Australia Disaster Assistance phone lines are open now. The fastest and easiest way to
claim disaster assistance is over the phone by calling 180 22 66. Phone lines are open from 8am to
8pm local time, seven days a week.
The Australian Government will also lift mutual obligation requirements for job seekers in the
Local Government Areas impacted by the NSW floods and storms from Friday, March 19 until
Tuesday, April 6.
No job seeker in the affected areas will face payment suspension or financial penalties for failing
to meet their mutual obligation requirements such as not being able to attend appointments or
activities.
For more information on support available, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster.
More information on Australian Government disaster assistance is available at
www.disasterassist.gov.au.
