With 34 local government areas in New South Wales now declared as natural disaster zones, recovery funding has been made available to help businesses through the crisis.
Below is a summary of disaster relief that has been made available by the federal government. Please visit Services Australia for more information about how to apply.
Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment
The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) is a one-off payment to eligible Australians adversely affected by the storms and floods through the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment.
The payment is $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child. Claims for this payment can be lodged with Services Australia for a period up to six months.
For more information, please contact the Services Australia website or the Australian Government Information Hotline on 180 22 66 for claims assistance.
Concessional interest rate loans
Concessional interest rate loans (direct damage) to small businesses and primary producers have also been introduced.
Loans of up to $130,000 at a fixed concessional interest rate may be available to small businesses and primary producers (subject to certain eligibility criteria) that have been directly impacted by a disaster.
These loans may be used to meet carry-on requirements or to repair or replace damaged property not covered by insurance.
Disaster Recovery Allowance
This allowance provides ongoing income support payments for small businesses, primary producers and non-profit organisations and is available through the Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA).
For more information on eligibility, visit the Services Australia website or contact the Australian Government Information Hotline on 180 22 66 for claims assistance.
Written by Sheree Young