Services Australia is ready to support affected communities in Far North Queensland, following record-breaking rainfall and flash flooding overnight.
Minister for Government Services, the Hon Bill Shorten MP said that the agency is closely monitoring the developing situation on the ground.
“The escalating situation in Far North Queensland is extremely concerning, and I want all Australians to know that the Government stands ready to support you during this difficult time,” Minister Shorten said.
“Services Australia is continually monitoring developments in Far North Queensland, and will work closely with partner agencies and Local and State Governments to support people when they need it most.”
In addition, Minister Shorten said that Services Australia customers may notice some changes throughout this period, including the suspension of mutual obligation requirements.
“Mutual obligation requirements have been paused nationally from today, Monday 18 December to Monday 1 January 2024,” Minister Shorten said.
“This will be a welcome change for people over the Christmas period, and will ensure that impacted Australians in Far North Queensland can focus on their safety.
“The wellbeing of staff and customers is crucial, and as a result some Services Australia offices have also closed due to extensive damage to roads and local infrastructure.”
The situation is changing rapidly and people should visit the Services Australia website for up to date information on service centre closures at: servicesaustralia.gov.au/servicechanges
It’s important to know, Services Australia will also automatically pay customers their regular income support payment in some impacted postcodes, meaning they won’t need to report their income before being paid by Services Australia.
Australians can continue to get support with their Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support business using online services, the myGov app or by calling Services Australia.
More updates will be provided in the coming days as the situation evolves.
Media contact: Antonia Magee, 0409 339 989
Additional information – payments in the following postcodes will be automatically processed:
| Yarrabah Back Beach | 4871 |
| Kuranda | 4881 |
| Wujal Wujal | 4895 |
| Murray Upper | 4854 |
| Cooktown | 4895 |
| Hope Vale | 4895 |
| Babinda | 4861 |
| Ravenshoe | 4888 |
| Tully | 4854 |
| Malanda | 4885 |
| Port Douglas | 4877 |
| Herberton | 4887 |
| Millaa Millaa | 4886 |
| Dimbulah | 4872 |
| Mt Garnet | 4872 |
| Mission Beach | 4852 |
| Chillagoe | 4871 |
| Cardwell | 4849 |
| Daintree | 4873 |