Joint media release with Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher
The Albanese Government is expanding its financial assistance for communities in the New South Wales Hunter and Mid North Coast regions impacted by the recent devastating floods.
From 2:00pm local time on Friday 30 May, the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) will be available for people in the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie Local Government Areas (LGAs).
AGDRP helps those who have suffered the most serious impacts, including major damage to their home, serious injury, or loss of a loved one as a result of severe weather. It's a one-off payment of $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per child.
This is in addition to those who can already claim in the Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Kempsey, Maitland, Mid Coast, Nambucca Valley, Port Macquarie-Hastings and Port Stephens LGAs.
People can check their eligibility for AGDRP on the Services Australia website.
The quickest way to claim is online through myGov.
If people need help to claim, they can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66.
To change or pause Centrelink debt repayments, affected people can do so online or in the mobile app (through the Money you owe service), or by calling 1800 076 072.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Government Services Katy Gallagher
"These communities have already endured so much, and it is crucial that government stands firm with them now as they begin the process of recovery - including by expanding access to financial support.
"We know the difference these payments will make to people in need of immediate support, which is why Services Australia staff are working hard to process claims smoothly and deliver support as quickly as possible.
"I continue to encourage people in the impacted areas to find out what assistance they can access and get their claims in as soon as they can."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain
"We know this has been a traumatic time for many, and this financial support is about making sure people aren't left to face the recovery alone.
"By expanding access to the AGDRP, we're ensuring more people who've experienced serious loss or damage can get help when they need it most.
"Our priority is to stand with flood affected communities every step of the way, from response through to long term recovery."
