Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA)

About this grant

The Disaster Recovery Allowance provides people whose income has been reduced because of a declared major disaster with a short-term allowance for up to 13 weeks.

Eligibility requirements

All of the following criteria must be met:

• Individuals affected by a declared major disaster.
• Disaster recovery allowance (dra) is a short term payment that is available to assist individuals whose income has been directly impacted by a declared major or widespread disaster.
• A declared major or widespread disaster can be a natural or man-made disaster that occurs either in australia or offshore.
• An allowance paid for a maximum of 13 weeks is available to eligible individuals, including employees, sole traders and primary producers.
• Be an australian citizen or be the holder of an eligible visa and living in australia for the period of time you receive the allowance
• Live in, or earn or receive an income in an area that has been adversely affected by a declared major disaster
• Have experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the disaster
• Earn less than the average weekly income in the weeks after you had this income loss.
• Support for farmers experiencing financial hardship
• Loans for small to medium businesses to export goods or services
• Motor vehicle duty refund on replacement vehicles

What the funding covers

• Payments vary.

How to apply

1. 1Confirm readiness: Ensure you meet criteria (e.g., ABN, turnover limits, GST registration), align project objectives with grant goals, and estimate time for evidence gathering and writing.
2. 2Gather evidence: Collect documents like financials, business plans, market research, project budgets, resumes, risk analysis, and support letters to prove capability and impact.
3. 3Register/log in: Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) if needed, sign into the relevant portal (e.g., Business Grants Hub portal), and note any prerequisites like advisory service reports.
4. 4Prepare and write application: Address all selection criteria clearly (project details, government alignment, costs, outcomes, benefits); keep concise, factual, and compelling; validate for completeness.
5. 5Review, approve, and submit: Proofread, get stakeholder sign-off, submit online via the portal before deadline (no late entries); expect eligibility check, merit assessment, and outcome notification.
6. 6Visit https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/disaster-recovery-allowance-dra for application details

Application tips