Financial disaster relief announced for cyclone-hit victims

In the aftermath of the devastation caused by ex-Cyclone Alfred, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has addressed the challenges faced by those affected. As the severe weather conditions continue to batter southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales, the government has unveiled a disaster relief package to aid victims in their time of need.

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment, a one-off payment, has been announced to provide immediate financial assistance to those significantly impacted by the disaster. Adults are eligible for $1,000, while children can receive $400, offering a financial lifeline to those who have suffered serious injury, the loss of a family member, or significant damage to their homes and possessions. 

Recognising the broader economic impact of such natural calamities, the government has also introduced the Disaster Recovery Allowance. This payment, available for up to 13 weeks, is designed for individuals who find themselves unable to work due to the disaster’s direct effects. Fourteen areas in Queensland and 17 areas in New South Wales are covered. Applications for this will open 2pm on Tuesday, 11 March.

Prime Minister Albanese, in a press conference, underscored the importance of this allowance, stating, ‘The Disaster Recovery Allowance is a payment for up to 13 weeks for people who are unable to work as a direct result of the disaster.’

To be eligible for these payments, applicants must be Australian citizens or hold a New Zealand special category visa, be at least 16 years old, and have been adversely affected by the disaster. Principal carers of affected children are also able to claim on their behalf, ensuring that the youngest and most vulnerable receive the support they need.

In addition to these federal measures, states have the option to activate a personal hardship assistance scheme. This scheme covers immediate personal costs such as replacing food, medical supplies, clothing, and essential household items like bed linens and white goods. ‘States can choose to activate these payments which cover immediate personal costs,’ Albanese noted, highlighting the collaborative effort between state and federal governments.

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment has yet to be activated, but the Prime Minister has assured that the government ‘stands ready to activate disaster payments’ and will do so swiftly as appropriate. ‘We won’t be waiting for the March 25 budget to do that,’ he affirmed, signalling the urgency of the government’s response.

Prior to this announcement, disaster recovery funding had already been activated for 12 south-east Queensland councils to assist with preparation and recovery efforts. This funding has been instrumental in sandbagging, evacuations, and emergency repairs to roads and public infrastructure, supporting local government areas such as Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy has emphasised the state’s preparedness, stating, ‘We’re prepared for Cyclone Alfred and we’re asking Queenslanders to do the same. We have resources on the ground, ready to go, as soon as Cyclone Alfred passes.’

Despite the downgrading of Cyclone Alfred to a tropical low, severe weather warnings remain in place, and the risk of flash flooding is a pressing concern. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has highlighted the ongoing challenges, urging readiness for the predicted creek rises and flash flooding in the days ahead.

What are your thoughts on the government’s disaster relief initiatives? How do you think these measures will affect recovery in the long term? Feel free to share your insights and experiences in the comments below.

Also read: The morning after: here’s what to do once Cyclone Alfred has passed