The federal government has announced it is activating financial support for communities and businesses that have been directly affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Through the Disaster Recovery Allowance, eligible workers can access up to 13 weeks of income support if they’ve suffered a loss of income directly due to the event.

The funding will be available in 14 local government areas in Queensland, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Gympie, Ipswich, Moreton Bay, Scenic Rim and Sunshine Coast.

A further 17 local government areas in NSW will be able to access the funding too, including Armidale, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Lismore, Nambucca, Richmond and Tweed.

To be eligible for the allowance, a person’s income must have fallen below to the average Australian weekly income as a result of the floods.

Applications are now open, with people advised to head to the Services Australia website and apply through myGov.

“At the worst of times we see the best of the Australian character. That’s exactly what we’ve seen in the past week in Queensland and New South Wales,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says.

“My message to these communities in this difficult time is we’ve got your back and will support you through the recovery.”

Government services minister Katy Gallagher says it’s essential to support communities who have lost income due to the weather event.

“The government is focused on helping communities get back on their feet – we will provide up to 13 weeks of income support through the Disaster Recovery Allowance to people who have lost work,” she says.

“If you live in an impacted area and your employment has been affected, please visit the Services Australia website to check if you are eligible.”

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