Residents in Chermside and neighbouring suburbs impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred can now apply for disaster recovery payments. Financial assistance available through relief programs.
Photo Credit: CrDanitaParry/Facebook
Background: Cyclone Alfred’s Impact
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has caused widespread disruption across south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales. It prompted the activation of government relief measures. The Australian and Queensland authorities have jointly announced financial assistance for affected individuals and families, particularly in the Brisbane Local Government Area, including Chermside and Chermside West.
Available Financial Assistance
Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP)
The AGDRP provides a one-off, non-means-tested payment. It offers $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per child for those significantly affected by Cyclone Alfred. This financial aid aims to assist short-term recovery efforts for individuals and families.
Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA)
Workers and sole traders in the impacted areas who have lost income due to the cyclone can apply for the Disaster Recovery Allowance. It provides up to 13 weeks of financial support, paid fortnightly (maximum $1,007 per fortnight).
State Grants
Residents in Chermside and Chermside West may also be eligible for state-level financial assistance, including:
- Emergency Hardship Assistance: Up to $180 per person or $900 per family to cover essential needs such as food, clothing, and temporary accommodation.
- Essential Services Hardship Assistance: Available after five days without essential services such as power, water, or gas. Grants range from $150 per person to $750 per family.
- Essential Household Contents Grant: Financial aid between $1,765 for individuals and $5,300 for families to replace essential household items lost due to the cyclone.
- Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Scheme: Up to $4,200 for uninsured homeowners to restore electricity, gas, water, and sewage services.
- Structural Assistance Grant: Uninsured, low-income homeowners can receive up to $80,000 to repair or rebuild cyclone-damaged homes.
Photo Credit: CrDanitaParry/Facebook
How to Apply for Assistance
Residents in Chermside and other affected suburbs can apply for financial aid through myGov or call 180 22 66. Queensland-specific grants can be accessed through the Community Recovery Hubs or contact 1800 173 349.
Community Response and Recovery Efforts
Community Recovery Hubs have been set up in affected areas. It aims to support and guide residents navigating the financial aid process. Due to the high volume of applications, processing delays are expected, but efforts are underway to expedite relief distribution.
Next Steps for Chermside Residents
Chermside and Chermside West residents are encouraged to check their eligibility. Residents are urged to apply for available relief payments. The financial assistance aims to support affected communities in rebuilding and recovering from Cyclone Alfred’s impact.
Published 13-Mar-2025