SENATOR THE HON KATY GALLAGHER
MINISTER FINANCE
MINISTER FOR WOMEN
MINISTER FOR THE PUBLIC SERVICE
MINISTER FOR GOVERNMENT SERVICES

SENATOR THE HON JENNY MCALLISTER
MINISTER EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 
MINISTER FOR CITIES
SENATOR FOR NEW SOUTH WALES 

NSW COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY EX-TROPICAL CYCLONE ALFRED TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

The Albanese Government today activated its latest support for communities affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and its aftermath, the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP).

The AGDRP offers residents a one off $1,000 grant per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child and is being activated in the Local Government Areas of Ballina, Byron, Lismore and Tweed as well as the two locations of Yamba in the Clarence Valley LGA and Lillian Rock in the Kyogle LGA.

As additional information about impacts becomes available, the Government will consider other locations.

The AGDRP is designed to support residents who suffered serious damage to their home, injury or loss of a loved one as a result of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

If a person has suffered a loss of income as a direct result, they may also be eligible for the Australian Government’s Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA), which offers up to 13 weeks of income support for workers and sole traders depending on their personal circumstances.

Residents can check their eligibility for the AGDRP and DRA on the Services Australia website at: servicesaustralia.gov.au/disastersupport .

Claims will open for AGDRP payments at 2pm on Thursday 13 March 2025. 

The easiest way to claim is online through myGov. If people need help to claim, they can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66.

To change or pause Centrelink debt repayments, affected people can do so online or in the mobile app (through the Money you owe service), or they can call 1800 076 072.

This event has impacted households in different ways and there are a range of payments currently available aside from AGDRP and DRA. A range of assistance has been made available under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements including grants for eligible low-income residents to replace lost essential household items or undertake structural repairs to their homes.

For people whose homes have been impacted, they may be eligible for Personal Hardship Assistance: a payment of between $180 - $900 depending on household size.

More information can be found on the Service NSW website.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Government Services Katy Gallagher

“The Government remains focussed on those who have been impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. We know recovery will take time, and this is one of the many Commonwealth and jointly funded payments available to support impacted communities.

“If you live in one of the areas listed, I’d encourage you to get on the Services Australia website to learn more and begin the claim process.

“Supporting people during emergencies and natural disasters is Services Australia’s core work. Staff will be working hard to process these claims as soon as possible.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister

“The recent tropical cyclone and its aftermath has caused destruction in NSW, and the Albanese Government is ready to support local communities.

“Support through the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment is just part of the comprehensive aid we’re providing to help those affected rebuild their lives.

“As we assess the full impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, we are mobilising swiftly to ensure that affected areas receive the necessary support.

“Recovery is a long process, and we are committed to standing by the people of NSW throughout their journey to rebuild.”