Funding available for those affected by Victorian storms

Financial support is being announced for farmers affected by the recent storms in Victoria. Here’s what help is available.

Damage in the Dandenong Ranges after last weeks storms brought down trees crushing many homes. Picture: NCA NewsWire /Wayne Taylor

Flood and storm-hit farmers across southeastern Australia can access a variety of government and corporate relief packages opened up in recent days.

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment provides one-off financial assistance to eligible farmers and residents affected by the storms and floods.

The flat rate of AGDRP is $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child and can be claimed any time in the coming six months.

The federal cash is open in the Hepburn, Latrobe, Moorabool and Yarra Ranges council areas.

Meanwhile, the Victorian Government have announced a Prolonged Power Outage Payment of $1680 per week for up to three weeks starting from June 17.

The payment will be administered by Ausnet and is on top of the Emergency Re-establishment Payments announced on Sunday.

Last week, the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund launched an appeal for donations which can be made via direct bank transfer (BSB: 083 932, account: 740196862), Paypal via www.gerf.org.au, or at any at any NAB branch.

At a corporate level, most banks have announced some form of assistance to customers.

including credit card and personal loan relief.

“This is devastating many customers – we’re here to support you. First priority is to stay safe, and then look to us for support,” NAB executive Mil Kairouz said.

The Commonwealth Bank has announced “customised payment arrangements” for loans as well as waiving fees and charges.

“We understand that everyone will have different needs and we encourage our customers that are affected to contact us to discuss their individual circumstances,” CBA executive Angus Sullivan said.

Westpac has announced business customers may request loan restructuring with no fees incurred.

“The severe weather events in the Gippsland region and other parts of Victoria have caused devastation to homes and businesses, on top of the recent challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic,” Westpac executive Chris de Bruin said.