The Australian Government has extended income assistance to people affected by the bushfires in the Australian Capital Territory.

Assistance is being provided through the federal Disaster Recovery Allowance.

Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the payment would help those who have lost their income and need additional support.

“The Disaster Recovery Allowance means people can access income assistance for up to 13 weeks, equivalent to the rate of Newstart Allowance or Youth Allowance,” Minister Littleproud said.

“It’s designed to assist those who can’t go to work or run their own business to get back on their feet.

“The allowance will keep people in their communities so they can help with the local recovery.

“This support package is on top of the assistance being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

“We will stand shoulder to shoulder with communities facing bushfires and will make more assistance available as it is needed.”

Claims will be open from Friday 14 February 2020. For more information or to make a claim visit www.humanservices.gov.au/disaster or call 180 22 66.