Disaster recovery payment, Income recovery subsidy and counselling will assist in rebuilding: Mirabella

24-February-2009

Sophie Mirabella MP, Federal Liberal Member for Indi has urged local residents who have been affected by the bushfires to contact Centrelink to see if they are eligible for the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP).

“I am delighted that the Federal Government has listened to our calls for financial assistance for local residents, families and businesses tragically affected by the bushfires,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“Local residents who have been affected or know people who have been touched by these fires in some way should begin contacting Centrelink as soon as possible to arrange vital assistance.”

One-off payments of $1,000 per adult and $400 per child are available.

Mrs Mirabella has also urged local employees, business and farmers who experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the bushfires to apply for the Income Recovery Subsidy.

“It is welcome news that those who have lost income as a result of these bushfires will be compensated.”

“I am very pleased that local people who assisted by caring for family and friends who lost homes and also volunteers will be able to apply for financial assistance after giving so much.”

The Income Recovery Subsidy will be a $449.30 per fortnight for a single adult, $405.40 per fortnight for an adult who is a member of a couple and $486.00 per fortnight for a single adult with a dependant child.

“I particularly welcome the announcement that counselling services for devastated and struggling families and children in fire affected communities will be funded by the Federal Government.

“This increased funding is what we have been calling for and I am pleased it will be available to provide counselling services to families and children who have been tragically affected by the bushfires.

Locals who wish to inquire as to their eligibility for the AGDRP, the Income Recovery Subsidy or access to subsidised counselling services should contact Centrelink on 180 22 11.