Responding to a natural disaster can put significant financial pressure on a state or territory government. In recognition of this, the Australian Government provides funding under the joint Australian Government-State cost sharing arrangements to help them with relief and recovery costs.
When a major disaster has had such a significant impact on individuals and families where assistance over and above the joint Australian Government-State cost sharing arrangements is needed, the Australian Government may provide the Disaster Recovery Payment which is a one-off recovery payment.
Major disasters can have a significant impact on people's ability to earn an income. In such situations, the Australian Government may provide the Disaster Recovery Allowance which is a short-term income support payment.
