Those worst-hit by the Cudlee Creek bushfire can now access $280 per adult up to $700 for a family with hardship payments now available. Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud said this support would put cash in the pockets of those most in need. "These hardship payments are to help meet immediate needs such as food, clothing and medicine," said Minister Littleproud.
"This is to help give dignity to people in hardship because of the fires.
"Further assistance will be made available once we get a clearer picture of damages on the ground."
South Australian Premier Steven Marshall MP urged South Australians directly affected by the Cudlee Creek bushfire to apply for the one-off emergency government grants to assist with immediate, temporary relief.
"In difficult and trying times like these, the community needs assistance quickly and efficiently – and we are here to help," said Premier Marshall.
"South Australians directly affected by the Cudlee Creek bushfire can receive up to $700 per family.
"The emergency relief grants are intended to provide immediate financial help for essentials, such as toiletries, medication and clothing and I urge affected South Australians to apply for this relief.
"The State and Federal Governments are standing shoulder to the shoulder with the community at this tough time and further recovery will be made available as required."
South Australian Human Services Minister Michelle Lensink thanked volunteers and emergency services on the ground.
"It is thanks to the vital work of volunteers and emergency services right across the state that our communities have people there to help in their hour of need – thank you," Minister Lensink said.
For information about personal hardship and distress assistance people can contact the Recovery Hotline on 1800 302 787.
For information about personal and financial counselling people can call the Financial Counselling Helpline on 1800 007 007 and the Rural Financial Counselling Service on 1800 836 211.
Further information on disaster assistance is at disasterassist.gov.au and the SA emergency information and response website at sa.gov.au.
