The Australian government has come up with a cash grant of \$1,000 through Centrelink in the emergency interim financial support measure for persons and families in the midst of any serious crisis.
This payment is part of a Crisis Payment program to help aid those clinging on in the last moments of a period of sudden, tragic, extreme circumstances such as in cases of domestic violence, natural disasters, or an unforeseen emergency. The intention is always to be able to offer some practical assistance when it is needed the most.
To Whom the $1,000 Emergency Payment Is Given
The eligibility of an applicant for this $1,000 emergency Centrelink payment is conditional on many factors. In any case, the applicant must be an income support payment recipient or considered eligible to receive income support payment and be going through a crisis almost driving them into the streets and with little or no means to counter their daily living costs.
The mainstream cases that may qualify for such situations are leaving violent homes, release from prison, or being in a state of emergency following floods or bushfires. Another exception may be where the person is in such financial distress that they are unable to seek assistance from any other support services.
How to Apply for an Emergency Payment
Applications need to be made through Centrelink and may be lodged online via myGov, or any local Services Australia Service Centre. Supporting documents that may be required include police reports, medical notes, or emergency accommodation details that will assist in validating the applicant’s claim. Speed is of the essence, as most crisis payments need to be made within seven days from the date of the event or crisis. Potential applicants should not delay.
Method of Payment
When approved, the emergency payment is deposited into the recipient’s nominated bank account. The time for processing varies greatly with Centrelink trying to fast-track a lot of them within just a few days, and this is more so where there have been priority considerations given to a particular case.
This just one-time payment could not possibly be used in place of income support, so it is fair to say that the payment is treated as expanding a means of urgent assistance in the immediate occasion of hardship.
Intent of Government to Broaden Access
The government has expressed an intention to promote awareness of the emergency payment and expedite the application process for the hardest-to-reach vulnerable Australians. Given the rising cost of living, this timely support is expected to alleviate those in a crisis but from within the existing social welfare framework.