The hardship and devastation to Australian communities caused by the bushfires in recent months cannot be overstated. There are a number of schemes offering assistance to those who have been impacted, outlined below with thanks to the team at Knowledge Shop.
- Tax relief
Approximately 3.5 million businesses, individuals and SMSF in identified areas have been granted an automatic extension until 28 May 2020 to lodge and pay activity statements, income tax, SMSF and FBT lodgements.
To find out if your postcode is included in the area for automatic extension please visit https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Dealing-with-disasters/In-detail/Specific-disasters/Bushfires-2019-20/?anchor=Postcodesidentifiedfordeferral#Postcodesidentifiedfordeferral
- Disaster recovery payments
This is a payment of $1000 for each adult and $400 for each child available to those who have been seriously injured, have lost an immediate family member, have lost their home or had it significantly damaged, or have lost major assets due to the bushfires. There is also an additional $400 per child to help with education expenses for children in affected areas.
To find out more and apply, please visit https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/help-emergency/bushfires
- Loss of income – Disaster recovery allowance
This allowance provides income support for up to 13 weeks to those that have lost income as a result of the bushfires. You will need to prove that you earned below the relevant income threshold to access this payment.
To find out more and apply, please visit https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/help-emergency/bushfires
- Mental health support
Up to 10 free sessions are available through primary health networks for those who need support following the bushfires. This is in addition to Medicare rebates for 10 psychological therapy sessions through eligible GP’s, psychologists, occupational therapists and social workers. You don’t need a GP referral for these services.
For further information please visit https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/mental-health-support-for-australians-affected-by-the-2019-20-bushfires
- Phone, internet and energy
Many providers are offering support packages including extended time for bill payments, free call diversion, free prepaid charges and bill waivers. Additionally, Optus and Telstra are offering support to eligible volunteer firefighters and SES volunteers by covering their telecommunications bills for December 2019 and January 2020. Please contact your provider for further information.
- Support for business
Businesses that have suffered direct losses or indirect economic loss may be able to access recovery grants of up to $50,000 tax-free and/or concessional loans of up to $500,000. There is also a number of State Government grants available.
For further information on grants available in NSW please visit https://www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/Pages/for-the-community/disaster-assistance/financial-support.aspx.