Assistance for Individuals and Businesses Impacted by Floods

Individuals and businesses that have been impacted by the current floods in the region can access financial support from the Australian and NSW Governments. Many banks and service providers are also offering assistance with details available on their websites.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said Services Australia staff have mobilised and are providing immediate on-the-ground support to people affected by the devastating floods across New South Wales. “The Australian Government is supporting communities through this crisis, and Services Australia have surged over 5000 staff to support the current disaster response effort,” Mr Coulton said.

The Australian Government is currently offering:

• Disaster Recovery Payment – A one-off payment of $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per child.
• Disaster Recovery Allowance – Up to 13 weeks of payments for employees, primary producers and sole traders who have experienced a loss of income due to the floods.
• Paused Debt Raising and Recovery – Those in affected areas don’t need to make repayments on any outstanding Centrelink debts for 6 months.

Further details on both of these payments and the pause on debt, including how to apply is available on the Service Australia website. Services Australia Disaster Assistance phone lines are open from 8am to 8pm local time, seven days a week on 180 22 66.

The NSW Government is providing a range of assistance for individuals and businesses including the Disaster Relief Grant for individuals whose home or essential household contents were damaged or destroyed and the Flood Disaster Recovery Small Business Grant. To find out what is available, you can use their Disaster Assistance Finder or call 13 77 88.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Local Land Services have developed a Natural Disaster Assistance Guide for Primary Producers which outlines the available support for landholders, primary producers, commercial fishers, aquaculturists and foresters impacted by the recent floods. Assistance for owners of rural animals and livestock is also available from the NSW Government through the Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline on 1800 814 647.

Many people in our region are going through hard times, and if you are feeling overwhelmed, or finding it tough, it is important to reach out and talk to someone rather than just pushing through. Services such as Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyond Blue (1300 224 636) and Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) are here to help you.