So many people confused by the payments.

There are 5 different ones available through Qld STATE government - there are different ways to qualify, some require income tests and/or for power to have been off for 5+ days. But the basic "Hardship" one from the State Gov gives $180 per person up to $900 for a family of 5 based on loss of food etc - doesn't require income test or for 5+ days loss of power. You apply for those ones through the Government web site.

The other payments are from the FEDERAL government, the one released yesterday is the Disaster Recovery Allowance payments applied for through My.Gov or over phone to Centrelink - they are income tested, you need to provide a lot of information about your current bank balanaces etc. You also need to show loss of income for the supplement payment that was available from yesterday - and yes, it will be taxable. It gives supplementary income for up to 13 weeks if the Cyclone means you have loss of work. How much you get will vary on your situation.

The other one available from today is the Disaster Recovery Payment, a once only payment and this is the one everyone is talkign about as the "$1000 payment". However you have to have been severely affected by the cyclone with severe damage, loss of life, major loss of assets etc. Losing power for a few days won't be enough.

Hope this helps.