Natural disasters can strike without warning, leaving Australian families scrambling to cover immediate costs. Whether it’s bushfires, floods, or severe storms, the financial impact can be devastating. That’s where Centrelink’s Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment steps in to provide quick financial support when you need it most.
What is the Disaster Recovery Payment?
The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) is a one-off payment designed to help individuals and families affected by eligible disasters. If you’ve been seriously affected by a natural disaster in Australia, you could be entitled to $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child under 16 years of age.
This payment isn’t a loan – you don’t need to pay it back. It’s provided to help cover immediate costs like emergency accommodation, food, clothing, or other essential items you might need in the aftermath of a disaster.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible for the Disaster Recovery Payment if you’re an Australian resident or visa holder who has been seriously affected by a declared disaster. This includes situations where you’ve:
- Suffered serious injury
- Had your home severely damaged or destroyed
- Been evacuated from your home for at least 24 hours
- Lost income due to the disaster
Both Australian citizens and permanent residents can apply, as well as New Zealand citizens and certain visa holders who meet the residency requirements.
How Much Will You Receive?
The payment structure is straightforward:
- Adults (aged 16 and over): $1,000 per person
- Children (under 16 years): $400 per child
For example, a family of four with two adults and two children could receive up to $2,800 to help them get back on their feet.
How to Apply
Applying for the Disaster Recovery Payment is relatively simple. You can submit your claim through your myGov account linked to Centrelink, or by calling the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66.
You’ll typically need to provide:
- Proof of identity
- Evidence of how you’ve been affected by the disaster
- Details of any dependents you’re claiming for
Make sure you apply as soon as possible after the disaster occurs. While there are time limits for applications, these vary depending on the specific disaster event.
Additional Support Available
Beyond the immediate Disaster Recovery Payment, Services Australia offers other forms of assistance, including:
- Disaster Recovery Allowance for lost income
- Crisis Payment for people in severe financial hardship
- Advance payments of existing Centrelink payments
Your local council and state government may also provide additional support services, including temporary accommodation, counselling, and financial assistance for rebuilding.
Don’t Wait – Get Help Today
If you’ve been affected by a natural disaster, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. The Australian Government has these payments in place specifically to help you during the toughest times. Visit the Services Australia website or contact them directly to check if your area has been declared eligible and to start your application.
Remember, this support is your right as an Australian resident affected by disaster. There’s no shame in accepting help when you need it most – that’s exactly what these payments are designed for.
