Temporary COVID Disaster Payment Now Available
The Federal Government has announced a temporary COVID Disaster Payment to assist workers who reside or work in a Commonwealth declared hotspot, who are unable to attend work and earn an income as a result of state-imposed health restrictions that last for longer than one week.
The payment, available for Australian citizens, permanent residents and eligible working visa holders, is up to $500 per week for recipients who lose 20 hours or more of work, and $325 per week those who lose under 20 hours of work.
The payment is available in respect of the second and any subsequent weeks of restrictions to workers who:
- have liquid assets of no more than $10,000;
- have exhausted any leave entitlements (other than annual leave) or other special pandemic leave; and
- are not already receiving income support payments, business support payments, or the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment.
Access to the payment is available through Services Australia from 8 June 2021.
Important: Clients should not act solely on the basis of the material contained here. Items herein are general comments only and do not constitute or convey advice per se. Also, changes in legislation may occur quickly. We, therefore, recommend that our formal advice be sought before acting in any of the areas.
