Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA)
Short-term allowance for people affected by a major disaster
Last Updated: 14 April 2020
Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA)
The Disaster Recovery Allowance provides people whose income has been reduced because of a declared major disaster with a short-term allowance for up to 13 weeks.
Check the Services Australia website for application deadlines.
What do you get?
Payments vary.
Who is this for?
Individuals affected by a declared major disaster.
Overview
Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) is short-term payment that is available to assist individuals whose income has been directly impacted by a declared major or widespread disaster.
A declared major or widespread disaster can be a natural or man-made disaster that occurs either in Australia or offshore.
An allowance paid for a maximum of 13 weeks is available to eligible individuals, including employees, sole traders and primary producers.
What are the eligibility criteria?
To be eligible, you must:
- be at least 16 years of age
- be an Australian citizen or be the holder of an eligible visa and living in Australia for the period of time you receive the allowance
- live in, or earn or receive an income in an area that has been adversely affected by a declared major disaster
- have experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the disaster
- not be receiving any other government income support payment or pension
How do you apply?
Find out more about eligibility and how to apply at Disaster Recovery Allowance.