Severe Victorian bushfires continue to cause widespread destruction, burning thousands of hectares and damaging or destroying hundreds of homes. Many residents have been forced to evacuate quickly, leaving behind belongings, livelihoods, and daily stability.
As emergency crews battle the fires, financial assistance has become essential for families facing sudden hardship.
In response, the Australian Government has confirmed urgent Centrelink disaster relief payments to help affected households manage immediate needs.
$1,000 Centrelink Disaster Payment Activated
The government has officially activated the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) for people directly impacted by the Victorian bushfires. This support provides a one-off payment of $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child.
This payment is designed to help individuals who have:
- Suffered serious injury
- Experienced property damage or destruction
- Been forced to evacuate
- Lost income due to the fires
Importantly, the payment does not affect existing Centrelink benefits and does not need to be repaid.
Who Is Eligible and When Applications Open?
Eligible residents living in officially declared disaster areas can begin applying from 2:00 pm on Wednesday, January 14.
Current eligible locations include:
- Barkers Creek
- Harcourt
- Harcourt North
- Longwood
- Longwood East
- Natimuk
- Ravenswood South
- Ruffy
- Sutton Grange
Staff from Services Australia are available to help confirm eligibility and process claims as quickly as possible.
How the Disaster Payment Can Be Used?
The $1,000 disaster relief payment is intended to cover urgent and essential expenses, including:
- Replacing basic household items
- Buying clothing and food
- Paying for medication
- Securing short-term accommodation
For evacuees and those unable to return home, this support offers critical short-term financial stability during early recovery.
Extra Assistance Through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements
Beyond Centrelink payments, additional help is available through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments.
DRFA support is currently active in:
- Strathbogie
- Towong
- Mansfield
- Murrindindi shires
This funding supports emergency relief centres, financial and personal counselling, debris removal from damaged homes, and the restoration of vital public infrastructure.
Emergency Relief Payments for Evacuated Households
Families whose homes are damaged, destroyed, or located within evacuation warning zones may also qualify for emergency relief payments, including:
- $680 per adult
- $340 per child
- Up to $2,380 per family
These payments help cover immediate costs such as food, clothing, medication, and temporary accommodation.
How to Apply for Centrelink Disaster Relief ?
The quickest way to apply is online via a myGov account linked to Centrelink. Full eligibility details and claim steps are available on the Services Australia website.
People who need direct assistance can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 1800 226 226, where trained staff can help lodge claims and explain available support.
State Support and Emergency Information
Victorians can also check local relief services and DRFA eligibility by visiting an Emergency Relief Centre or contacting VicEmergency. Regular updates on recovery programs, relief services, and community assistance are published through VicEmergency channels.
Managing Centrelink Commitments During the Emergency
People affected by the bushfires who are struggling with Centrelink debts or repayments can request temporary pauses or adjustments. This can be done online, through the Centrelink mobile app, or by calling 1800 076 072, helping reduce financial stress while recovery efforts continue.
The confirmation of $1,000 Centrelink disaster relief payments provides vital support to Victorians impacted by devastating bushfires. Alongside emergency relief and DRFA assistance, these payments aim to ease immediate financial pressure and help families stabilise during the early stages of recovery.
As eligibility areas and support measures may change, affected residents are encouraged to stay informed through official government channels to ensure they receive the help they are entitled to.
FAQs
Does the $1,000 Centrelink disaster payment affect my regular benefits?
No. The payment is separate from regular Centrelink payments and will not reduce or replace existing benefits.
Can I apply if I was evacuated but my home was not destroyed?
Yes. People who were forced to evacuate due to bushfires may still be eligible, depending on official disaster declarations.
Is the disaster relief payment taxable or repayable?
No. The payment is not taxable and does not need to be repaid.