The Federal Government is providing a one-off disaster payments to those worst affected by the devastating bushfires that have swept through Northern New South Wales and Southern Queensland.

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan said the Government has activated Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) which provides a non-means tested payment of $1000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children.

“The fires have had a devastating impact and these payments will go to those who have been hit hardest,’ Mr Hogan said.

“The fires have destroyed homes, cut essential services, affected local business and taken lives.

“Eligible people include those who have lost their home or have been badly injured.

“This payment is on top of the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Allowance.

“We’re committed to stand shoulder to shoulder with the community as it recovers from the fires.

“Anyone who has been severely affected should contact the Department of Human Services to check their eligibility.”

Payments are available to eligible residents in the Armidale, Clarence Valley, Richmond Valley, Tenterfield Noosa, Scenic Rim, Southern Downs and Sunshine Coast local government areas.

For information about the AGDRP, people can call DHS on 180 22 66, visit www.humanservices.gov.au/disaster or go to a DHS Service Centre.

More information on Australian Government disaster assistance is available at www.disasterassist.gov.au.