The Australian Government has announced a Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy of about $500 per fortnight for employees and small businesses who live in or derive an income from a flood affected area and have lost their income. Additionally, the Victorian, NSW and Queensland Governments have announced grant schemes for small businesses who have directly suffered damage to their premises and equipment as a result of the floods.
The range of businesses supported include primary producers, small businesses, and other rural and urban small businesses.
Low interest rate loans are also available for small businesses that have exhausted all other sources of finance.
The Australian, Victorian, NSW and Queensland Governments have also announced a range of hardship payments to help individuals and families.
For information about the personal assistance available, contact:
Australian Government, Ph:180 22 66
www.centrelink.gov.au
Victorian Government, www.dhs.vic.gov.au
Queensland Government,Ph:1800 173 349
www.qld.gov.au/floods
NSW Government, Ph:1800 018 444
www.community.nsw.gov.au
My thanks to David Costelloe (RWTA) for sending the update from the Victorian Transport Association.
