Pandemic financial support: an update

The Victorian and Federal Governments have updated their financial support measures to help individuals affected by Victoria moving into stage 4 coronavirus restrictions.

The state of disaster and tougher restrictions for Victoria declared on Monday 3 August are expected to impact more businesses and individuals. Many people are also experiencing a financial hit due to taking time off work for a coronavirus test or for the isolation period following a positive result. In response, the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments have announced new payments to affected Victorians to try and reduce the financial stress.

Below is a round-up of these measures.

VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT MEASURES

Support for Victorians who have lost their job or had their income affected by coronavirus
This one-stop hub provides a range of information and links to a range of financial and general support options being offered by the Victorian and Australian governments to help Victorians through this challenging time.

$300 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Test Isolation Payment
Eligible Victorian workers can apply for a $300 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Test Isolation Payment that provides financial support while they self-isolate to wait for the results of a coronavirus (COVID-19) test.

$1500 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Worker Support payment
To provide financial support to Victorian workers, parents or guardians who are self-isolating or quarantining due to coronavirus, the Victorian Government is making available a one-off $1500 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Worker Support payment.

Rent Relief Grant
Rent relief grants are one-off payments of up to $2,000 available to eligible Victorians experiencing financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus crisis to help them keep safe, secure and stable rental accommodation.

There are no citizenship or permanent residency requirements for applicants. Applicants that may be eligible include casual workers on holiday and working visas, skilled visas, seasonal workers, New Zealand citizens and all refugee and temporary protection visa holders.

Mental health resources
Information, advice, helpline details and tools to help people manage their mental health during the pandemic situation.

Emergency relief packages
An emergency relief package contains essential food and personal care items that are available to vulnerable Victorians who are needing to quarantine or isolation due to coronavirus (COVID-19).

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MEASURES

Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment for Victoria
Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced yesterday (Monday 3 August) a new Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment. Scheduled to be available from Wednesday 5 August 2020, as a disaster payment it only applies in Victoria, which is in a state of disaster.

Emergency assistance and support
Details of helplines for over-the-phone support and information during the coronavirus pandemic, including for financial, mental health and safety and businesses.

First Super is here to support affected members through the ongoing pandemic. Contact our Member Services Team on 1300 360 988 or by email for assistance.