Navigating tough times after a disaster can be overwhelming. If you’re a New Zealand citizen in Australia on a “non-protected” Special Category (subclass 444) visa and have experienced loss of income due to a major disaster, this guide is here for you. We break down the essentials of the ex-gratia Disaster Recovery Payment , helping you understand your rights and access support quickly.
What is the Ex-Gratia Disaster Recovery Allowance?
This scheme offers short-term income support for eligible New Zealanders living and working in Australia who have had their income affected by a declared major disaster. The allowance is meant to bridge the gap and provide financial relief while you get back on your feet. It’s provided in situations where the Australian Government’s Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) is available, and applies similar rules for eligibility and payment.
Get official details at the Department of Human Services or visit Disaster Assist for a comprehensive overview.
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
You could qualify for the ex-gratia Disaster Recovery Allowance if you:
Are a New Zealand citizen on a Special Category (subclass 444) visa (non-protected status)
Are at least 16 years old
Are a “non-resident” under the Social Security Act 1991
Have participated in Australia’s tax system for at least one year in the past three financial years, or will do so in the next 12 months
Work or live in the affected disaster area and earn, derive, or receive income from there
Have lost income directly due to a declared major disaster
Are not receiving any other income support payments (such as Age Pension, Newstart Allowance, Youth Allowance), or support allowances during the same period
Would receive a rate of payment greater than $0 for the first 14 days (fortnight) after the claim
Important: You cannot receive this allowance if you are already getting other income support for the same period or another ex-gratia payment for the same disaster. There are further rules if you’re under 22 and financially dependent on someone other than your partner.
For more details, the government outlines eligibility at the Disaster Assist website.
How Much and How is it Paid?
Payment amount is based on your circumstances and the loss of income in the disaster-affected period.
You qualify only if your calculated rate for the first fortnight is above nil.
Payment is short-term; it is specifically for the aftermath and recovery from the disaster.
Claiming: Simple Steps to Apply
Timeframe: You have up to six months from when the event is declared a major disaster to lodge your claim.
How to apply:
Call the Department of Human Services at 180 22 66
Visit any Centrelink or Medicare Service Centre, or a Centrelink Agent with your completed form
Post your form to: Emergency Processing Centre, Reply Paid 7815, Canberra BC ACT 2610
You can also fax your application to 1300 727 760
Check the latest claim forms and further updates on Services Australia – Disaster Recovery Payments.
Key Scheme Facts (Table Format)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Ex-gratia Disaster Recovery Allowance |
| Who is eligible | New Zealand citizens (subclass 444, non-protected), age 16+, affected by disaster, not on other income support |
| Key exclusions | Receiving other income support for same period, more than one ex-gratia payment for same disaster |
| Time to claim | 6 months from disaster declaration date |
| How to claim | Phone, in-person at Centrelink/Medicare, post, or fax |
| Payment period | Short-term, based on individual situation and disaster impact |
| Must be affected area resident/worker | Yes, must either live in or earn income from affected area |
| Income test for under 22 | Not eligible if dependent (other than partner) and income below $6,403 in relevant year |
What Makes You Ineligible?
Receiving Age Pension, Newstart Allowance, Youth Allowance, or other similar support payments for the period you claim
Already received another ex-gratia payment (not including Disaster Recovery Payment) for the same disaster event
For applicants under 22, being dependent (other than to a partner), not a parent, and income under $6,403 in the current financial year
How to Stay Updated and Find More Info
Stay up to date with the latest information on disaster support and eligibility via the Disaster Assist website and official Services Australia Disaster Payments.
People-First: What to Expect and Watch Out For
Claims are handled as quickly as possible, but providing accurate, complete, and timely information helps your case.
If your situation changes, let Centrelink or Services Australia know so your assistance reflects your needs.
You can only receive one ex-gratia payment for the same disaster, so review your full options before applying.
This scheme aims to be a safety net during distress, ensuring New Zealand citizens in Australia are not left behind in disaster recovery.
FAQs
Q1: Can I get this allowance if I already receive Centrelink payments?
No, you can’t claim this allowance if you are already receiving another income support payment covering the same period.
Q2: How quickly will I receive payment after applying?
Processing times depend on your application’s completeness and current Centrelink workloads. Apply early and provide all needed details for the fastest response.
Q3: Can I apply if I just moved to an affected area?
You must have either lived in or worked in the affected area and earned income there before your loss. Moving after the disaster may not meet eligibility.
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