Kempsey, Port Macquarie, Mid Coast and Dungog LGAs set for financial assistance after floods

Those who have lost income due to this week's floods on the Mid North Coast can apply for government financial support from Monday afternoon, May 26.

The federal government’s Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) is currently applicable for Kempsey, Port Macquarie, Mid-Coast and Dungog LGAs at this stage.

The DRA provides income support to employees, primary producers and sole traders who can prove they have experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the severe weather from May 18.

The allowance is fortnightly payments for up to 13 weeks of income, up to the applicable rate of JobSeeker Payment or Youth Allowance, depending on the person's circumstances.

Only Australian residents who are 16 years and older are eligible and the allowance is not available to those already receiving another income support payment or pension – such as the Age Pension, JobSeeker Payment or Service Pension.

The Services Australia website states claims will open on Monday, May 26, at 2pm and can be made online. Claims must be lodged before November 21, 2025. 

➡️ For eligibility information, you contact the Australian Government Information Hotline on 180 22 66
➡️ For emergency and natural disaster financial assistance for individuals and businesses visit Service NSW
➡️ For Disaster Relief Grants for individuals visit the NSW Government website