Communities in Far West NSW impacted by the recent severe weather and power outages can now apply for financial support from the Australian Government, Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton has confirmed.
The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) will be available to support people whose income has been affected by the ongoing power interruptions in the Broken Hill and Central Darling Local Government Areas, as well as the Unincorporated Far West.
Mr Coulton welcomed this news and encouraged residents to lodge a claim for assistance.
“I know this support will be a great relief for so many people across the Far West,” Mr Coulton said. “I thank Minister McAllister for her ongoing support to help get the Far West back on its feet.”
“The Disaster Recovery Allowance provides a short-term income support payment to assist workers and sole-traders whose income has been affected because of this disastrous event.
“The Allowance is available for up to 13 weeks, equivalent to the maximum rate of the Jobseeker Payment or Youth Allowance,” Mr Coulton said.
“The easiest and fastest way to claim is online though myGov, or by calling the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66 from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.”
Claims for DRA can be made to Services Australia from 2.00pm AEDT (1.30pm ACDT) today, Thursday 31 October 2024.
Check your eligibility at www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/natural-disaster
More information on Australian Government disaster assistance is available at disasterassist.gov.au
