Media Release
Lodge claims for Australian Government flood assistance now
1 February 2008
Minister for Human Services Senator Joe Ludwig is encouraging Queenslanders affected by flooding and storms that began on 13 January 2008 to test their eligibility for Australian Government assistance as soon as possible.
“It is important that people who’ve been affected by the storms and associated flooding in areas like Charters Towers, Mackay, Proserpine and the Whitsundays are aware they may be eligible for assistance,” Senator Ludwig said.
“The Australian Government’s assistance package is for people who were adversely affected by storms and flooding in Queensland that began in the Mackay and Whitsunday region on 13 January and continued on to affect other areas of the state.”
People who have been adversely affected may be eligible for the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment – one-off payments of $1000 for adults and $400 for each child. It provides immediate financial assistance to people whose principal place of residence has been destroyed or significantly damaged, as well as those who have been seriously injured and hospitalised for more than 48 hours as a direct result of the floods.
“These payments are in addition to emergency assistance and business grants available through the Queensland Government,” said Senator Ludwig.
“People should not self-assess their eligibility for assistance – I’d strongly encourage anyone who’s been seriously affected by these storms and associated flooding to contact Centrelink as soon as possible,” said Senator Ludwig.
“They can do this by phoning 180 2333 between 8am – 8pm, seven days a week, or by visiting their local Centrelink office or recovery centre.”
“Additionally, the Australian Government’s Drought Bus is touring the Gemfields and wider Emerald region to ensure communities such as Sapphire, Blackwater and Springsure are aware of financial assistance that’s available.”
Senator Ludwig said “Centrelink staff have been working tirelessly to get assistance quickly to those in need. The staff are doing a tremendous job ensuring people can access assistance and I’m pleased people affected by these floods have begun receiving money in their pockets.”
“Local Centrelink staff are on hand as well as in the Call Centre to provide information and take claims. In addition to extra staff on the ground in Queensland, additional Centrelink staff interstate are working extra hours to help verify and process claims as quickly as possible,” Senator Ludwig said.
Media Contact: Barb Barrett—0448 469 787.