The Albanese Government is activating additional financial support for communities directly affected by the recent floods in North Queensland through the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP).

The AGDRP offers residents $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child for people who suffered serious damage or injury as a result of the floods, to help with the costs of recovery.

Applications for the AGDRP will open at 2pm local time on Thursday, 6 February for affected people in the localities of Cardwell and Giru and the Local Government Area (LGA) of Hinchinbrook.

Before they claim, people can check their eligibility on the Services Australia website at: servicesaustralia.gov.au/disastersupport

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.

People impacted by the floods can also pause or change their Centrelink debt repayments using the Money You Owe service online in either their Centrelink online account, or Express Plus Centrelink mobile app. Alternatively, they can call 1800 076 072.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese: 

“People here are tough but this has been an extremely difficult time.

‘We will make sure this region gets all the support it needs to get back on its feet.”

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Government Services Katy Gallagher:

“We know people are just starting their recovery journey. Service Australia staff are well practiced in standing up and supporting the community during times of emergency.” 

“The AGDRP provides immediate support to those bearing the brunt of this disaster, allowing them to replace essential items lost.”

“I encourage people in the impacted areas to check their eligibility for payments on Services Australia’s website.”

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister:

“It’s been a challenging time for communities in North Queensland and the payment activated today will help provide immediate support to communities to alleviate stress and help with the ongoing recovery costs.

“We’re moving quickly to activate financial assistance for impacted individuals and families, ensuring they are supported through these challenging times.

“We know that the clean-up and damage assessments will be a difficult process for a lot of residents and all levels of government will continue to work together to support them through these difficult times.”