The Australian Government has extended income assistance to people affected by the bushfires in South Australian in the local government area of Adelaide Hills.

Assistance is being provided through the 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.

“These fires have had significant impacts on many communities and businesses and are impacting on people’s livelihoods and incomes.

“This gives eligible people up to 13 weeks income support while they are getting back on their feet.

“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.”

The DRA provides a short-term support payment to assist those whose income has been affected as a direct result of the bushfires.

People eligible for DRA can access income assistance for up to 13 weeks, equivalent to the rate of Newstart Allowance or Youth Allowance.

In South Australia, the DRA is available in the local government areas of Adelaide Hills and Yorke Peninsula.

Claims will be open from Monday 30 December 2019. For more information or to make a claim visit www.humanservices.gov.au/disaster or call 180 22 66.