Supporting Brisbane Residents: Government Assistance After Cyclone Alfred
Disaster Recovery Payment
The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) offers a one-off payment to help those seriously affected by the cyclone. Currently, eligible adults receive $1,000 and children under 16 receive $400. To qualify, you must:
- Be an Australian resident or hold an eligible visa
- Be 16 years or older at the time of the cyclone (or receiving benefits for a child under 16)
- Have been adversely affected by the cyclone (such as being injured, having your home damaged, or being without essential utilities for 48+ hours)
Applications can be made through myGov or by calling the disaster recovery hotline.
Disaster Recovery Allowance
The Disaster Recovery Allowance provides income support for up to 13 weeks if you've lost income as a direct result of the cyclone. This payment is equivalent to JobSeeker Payment or Youth Allowance rates, depending on your circumstances.
Queensland Government Support
The Queensland Government has activated several assistance measures through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA):
- Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Grants: Up to $5,000 for households to inspect and reconnect essential services like electricity, gas, water, and sewerage
- Essential Household Contents Grants: Up to $1,765 for uninsured individuals or families to replace essential household contents
- Structural Assistance Grants: Up to $14,685 for eligible homeowners to repair structural damage to their home
Insurance Support
While not government assistance, it's worth noting the Insurance Council of Australia has declared Cyclone Alfred a ‘catastrophe’, which means:
- Claims related to the cyclone are being prioritized
- Special disaster assessment teams have been deployed
- A dedicated disaster hotline has been established
How to Apply
Most government assistance programs can be accessed through:
1. The Queensland Community Recovery Hotline: 1800 173 349
2. Community Recovery Online Portal via the Queensland Government website
3. In-person at recovery centers established in affected areas
What to Have Ready
When applying for assistance, have the following ready:
- Proof of identity
- Evidence of residency in the affected area
- Bank account details for payments
- Documentation of damage (photos where possible)
- Income details (for income-based support)
Additional Support Services
Beyond financial assistance, remember that support is available for mental health and wellbeing:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Local community support services
If you're unsure about what assistance you might be eligible for, don't hesitate to contact the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline for personalized guidance. Recovery is a marathon, not a sprint, and these supports are designed to help you through each stage of the process.