Gippsland residents impacted by the bushfires are eligible for disaster relief payments of $1000 per adult and $400 per child from tomorrow.
Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the assistance was available through the Australian Government’s Disaster Recovery Payment with claims open from 2 January 2020.
“Gippsland is currently experiencing some of the worst bushfires we’ve seen and while we don’t yet know the full extent of the fires’ impact, we know it is significant,” Mr Chester said.
“These payments will assist people who have suffered significant loss or damage, including those who have lost a family member, homes and property or suffered personal injury.
“I urge anyone in need of assistance to call the Department of Human Services to check their eligibility.”
Claims will be open from Thursday 2 January 2020. For more information or to make a claim visit www.humanservices.gov.au/disaster or call 180 22 66.
Mr Chester also reminded community members who have been impacted by the fires of the assistance available through the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund (GERF).
“GERF is a registered charity that provides financial assistance to residents who have suffered loss or hardship from an emergency like these fires,” Mr Chester said.
“This includes meeting immediate personal needs such as food, shelter, clothing, bedding, furniture and children’s education needs.
“For more information you can visit www.gerf.org.au.
“Our communities are resilient and while there is a long road ahead, we will get through this together.”