Disaster assistance has been made available for Gippsland households which continue to be affected by prolonged power outages from the extreme weather event in Victoria.
Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said a Prolonged Power Outage Support Payment of $1680 per week, for up to three weeks, has been extended to all eligible households without power.
“This payment will support people to buy necessities to meet their particular circumstances, such as purchasing hot meals and other additional costs, like fuel for generators or finding alternative accommodation,” Mr Chester said.
“The Australian Government will continue to work alongside the Victorian Government and local communities to ensure that they have all the support they need during this difficult time.
“These payments are in addition to the range of supports available that are being delivered through our relief partners locally. We urge those who require additional support such as food or access to showers to contact their local council.”
Eligibility will be determined on a week to week basis. Customers whose power remains out next Thursday June 24 will be entitled to the second week’s payment, and customers whose power remains out at Thursday July 1 will be entitled to the third and final payment.
The funding package is being administered by AusNet on behalf of the Commonwealth and State governments to provide direct assistance to support residential customers dealing with prolonged power loss.
Eligibility criteria can be found on AusNet’s Storm Event webpage at www.ausnetservices.com.au/en/About/News-Room/News-Room-2021/Storm-Update
AusNet has established a dedicated claims process for customers impacted by the storm, which can be accessed on its website or by calling 13 17 99.
Information on disaster assistance is available on the Australian Government’s website www.disasterassist.gov.au, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website at www.delwp.vic.gov.au and the Vic Emergency website www.emergency.vic.gov.au/relief