Centrelink emergency help for all Australians

When a major emergency or natural disaster hits people in Australia the key Federal Government agency Centrelink can play an important role in supporting personal and community recovery through provision of a range of services.

Centrelink can immediately establish dedicated hotlines to assist people and their families and provide information about special payments available which can include crisis payments, special benefits, and give access to the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payments scheme in devastating emergencies.

Alternative payment options can also be arranged through direct debit including international bank accounts and debit cards that people can use to withdraw cash from automated teller machines and through cheque payments.

These services are available for all Australians – not just Centrelink customers – and further information is at www.centrelink.gov.au