Lost work due to Covid? You could be eligible for up to $600
Published 27 July 2021
The Australian government has created support payment for those who have been adversely affected by a state public health order. The COVID-19 Disaster Payment is a lump-sum payment for anyone who has lost work due to a lockdown or stay-at-home order.
Which states does this apply to?
As of 27 July 2021, this payment is for certain areas of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. The Services Australia website has the most up-to-date information on the locations this payment applies to.
If you are currently in or have recently been in lockdown, visit your state’s page to see if the payment applies to you:
Can international students get the Covid-19 Disaster Payment?
As with all government reimbursement, eligibility criteria applies. As an international student, you’re eligible for the payment provided you:
- are an Australian resident or hold an eligible working visa
- are aged 17 years or older
- have lost income and don’t have any appropriate paid leave entitlements.
Further eligibility applies depending on where you are located. Information has been divided into states:
This payment does not apply to those who are already receiving:
- an income support payment
- the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment, a state or territory pandemic payment or a state small business payment for the same period.
How much can you get?
At the time of writing, you can get a payment of $375– $600, depends on your situation. Factors that will affect how much you can receive include the:
- location of the health order
- period you’re claiming for
- hours of work you have lost.
How to claim
International students who hold an eligible working visas should call the Emergency information line to make a claim — that’s 180 22 66.
To speak with someone in a language other than English, you can, call the Multilingual Phone Service on 131 202. Lines are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm.
Are international students eligible for vaccination?
The Study Australia website says: “The Australian Government is committed to ensuring everyone in Australia will have access to the vaccination when it’s their turn – this includes international students who are studying in Australia.
The COVID-19 vaccines are voluntary and free for everyone in Australia. You do not need a Medicare card if you get your vaccination at Commonwealth vaccine clinics and state or territory vaccine clinics.”
You can read the full statement here.
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