Deadline approaching for Services Australia bushfire assistance claims

People in the Hawkesbury - which is one of Services Australia's 'declared' Local Government Areas - may be eligible for the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) or the Disaster Recovery Allowance, but they would need to get in before the main NSW cut-off of August 4.

Along with financial assistance for people and communities affected by the bushfires, free counselling and additional mental health support is available for individuals, families and emergency services workers affected by the bushfires.

The AGDRP is for people significantly affected by a declared disaster and is a one-off payment of $1,000 per adult and $400 for each child under 16.

If you're eligible for the AGDRP and you have a child in your care, you could also receive the Additional Payment for Children - an additional $400 on top of the AGDRP. You don't need to claim it separately - it will be paid into your bank account automatically, according to Services Australia.

The Disaster Recovery Allowance is a short-term, non-taxable payment for people who lost income as a direct result of the fire. If you're eligible, you can get it for up to 13 weeks.

To make a claim or to speak with a social worker, call 180 22 66 Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, or visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster for more information.