Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience, Minister for Regionalisation, Regional Communications and Regional Education
Joint Media Release
Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie
Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience
Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC
Minister for Government Services
Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme
People who are unable to earn an income because they must self-isolate, quarantine or are caring for someone with COVID-19 will now be able to claim Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment of $750 for each seven-day period.
Previously, the payment for Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment was $1,500 for each 14-day period.
Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie said the change reflected the changing requirements of states and territories for vaccinated people to isolate at home.
"People who are fully vaccinated no longer have to quarantine for 14 days in many states. The changes to the payment reflect the equivalent assistance over a shorter period," Minister McKenzie said.
"If a person is unable to work for longer than seven days, they can make separate claims for each seven-day period.
"The Coalition Government continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with people who cannot go to work and who are protecting the community from COVID-19 by staying home."
Minister for Government Services, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC encouraged people who had been unable to earn an income because of COVID-19 self-isolation, quarantine or illness to make a claim for assistance.
"The easiest and fastest way to claim is over the phone, by calling the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66," Minister Reynolds said.
"Staff from Services Australia are available to take calls between 8am to 5pm local time, Monday to Friday."
Check your eligibility at www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster
