Payment of $1000 per adult and $400 per child are now available to those worst-hit by the bushfires in the local government areas Adelaide Hills, City of Playford and Lower Eyre Peninsula.

Assistance is being provided through the Australia Government Disaster Recovery Payment.

Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the payment would help to provide dignity for those who had suffered a heavy loss.

"This is for people whose home has been severely damaged or destroyed, who've been seriously injured or who've lost a family member," Minister Littleproud said.

“The only reason these payments have been pushed through so quickly is because of the hard work of Minister Anne Ruston

“Her advocacy will see that cash gets into the hands of those affected and helps them get through the coming days with dignity.”

Minister for Families and Social Services and Senator for South Australia Anne Ruston said the Government hoped these payments would provide immediate financial assistance for those people facing untold hardship.

“My thoughts are with all those South Australians affected by these devastating bushfires.

“To lose your home, valued positions and property is absolutely heartbreaking.”

Claims will be open from Monday 23 December 2019. For more information or to make a claim visit www.humanservices.gov.au/disaster or call 180 22 66.

More information on Australian Government disaster assistance is available at www.disasterassist.gov.au.