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AGDRP is a one-off payment.
The rate of AGDRP is $1,000 per qualified adult and $400 per child for whom the qualified adult is the principal carer (1.1.P.412). The rate of payment for AGDRP is set by a determination by the Minister for Emergency Management. See 5.1.6.20 for explanation.
Act reference: SSAct section 1061K Qualification for AGDRP, section 1061P Determinations of rates
SS(Admin)Act section 46A Payment of AGDRP
AGDRP is NOT taxable.
AGDRP is usually paid as a one-off lump sum payment. However, there is a provision that, if it is appropriate to do so, the person's payment can be paid in instalments. A person who is currently receiving a pension or benefit and meets the criteria for AGDRP can receive AGDRP in addition to their regular payment, without their eligibility for their regular payment being affected.
Direct credit is generally the preferred method of payment, although there may be situations where this is not practical. Manual cheques can also be provided where access to the Centrelink system to issue payment is limited and where banking facilities are available in the area.
Explanation: The circumstances of an event will determine whether claimants are likely to be paid AGDRP via manual cheque.
Example: A bushfire victim may have lost all of their possessions and may not be able to provide their banking details to enable payment via direct credit.
In some cases, the AGDRP may be available through cash payments, depending upon the severity and circumstances of the disaster. This will only occur if it is determined that cash payments will not create additional pressures within a community.
Explanation: The circumstances of an event will determine whether payment of AGDRP with cash is appropriate.
Example: Where the central business district or town centre has been severely affected, recipients may be unable to access facilities to cash cheques or to operate accounts.
Policy reference: SS Guide 8.4.2 Immediate Payments
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Last reviewed: 9 February 2012
