People affected by Tropical Cyclone Marcia in February 2015 only have a limited time left to lodge a claim for the Disaster Recovery Payment (DRP) and the Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA).
Department of Human Services General Manager Hank Jongen urged affected residents in the Fitzroy and Wide Bay-Burnett regions to finalise any outstanding claims for DRP before the closing dates for claims on 21 and 25 August, respectively. DRA claims for both regions close on 25 August 2015.
“While many people affected have already been granted payments, there may be eligible residents who are yet to lodge a claim,” Mr Jongen said.
“The one-off Disaster Recovery payment of $1,000 for eligible adults and $400 for each eligible child under the age of 16 is available to anyone who was adversely affected by the cyclone and meets the criteria.
“The Disaster Recovery Allowance is available for a maximum of 13 weeks to assist eligible individuals including employees, primary producers and sole traders who experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the cyclone.
“More than 7,800 claims have been granted for the DRP worth over $9,500,000; and more than 590 DRA claims have been granted to residents affected by Tropical Cyclone Marcia.”
Yeppoon Service Centre Manager Esther Warcon said it had been incredible to witness the local community coming together to lend one another a helping hand in the rebuilding process.
“I was bunkered down with my husband and three daughters when the storm arrived, and we could hear trees come crashing down as the wind battered the neighbourhood,” Ms Warcon said.
“When it finally passed, people emerged from their homes to find debris everywhere, with fallen power lines blocking off road access in some places.
“I spent the rest of the day driving around to check on my colleagues and making sure they were okay, and I know many in the community were doing the same.
“People have been so supportive throughout the recovery process, be it donating goods, or giving a much needed hug to those who lost so much, and it makes me very proud to call Yeppoon home.”
To lodge a claim, or for more information, phone the Australian Government Emergency Information line on 180 22 66 or visit humanservices.gov.au/disaster.