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Centrelink cyclone assistance tops $40 million:

Queensland Media Release
Sunday, 02 April 2006

Centrelink has now delivered more than $40 million in much-needed assistance to people affected by Cyclone Larry.

Spokesman Ken Wilson said over 400 Centrelink staff have been involved in distributing financial assistance to thousands of people, farmers and businesses.

“Dedicated Centrelink staff in Innisfail, Cairns, Maryborough, Townsville and Brisbane worked right across the weekend to ensure people are getting the Australian Government relief package assistance as quickly as possible,” Mr Wilson said.

“While the initial response mainly focused on the one-off ex-gratia payments, we are now finding an increase in demand for the fuel excise rebate, business grants and income support.

"Centrelink will continue to be on hand this Monday, 3 April 2006 in a number of communities to answer questions and give advice to those in need.

Centrelink staff will be working this Monday in the following cyclone-affected areas:

Special phone lodgement facilities will also continue for Centrelink customers in Innisfail, Mareeba and the Atherton region who would normally have to come into a Centrelink office to lodge a form in order to receive their regular payment. Phone lodgement and general enquires are encouraged on Centrelink’s regular call centre numbers.

Centrelink’s Tropical Cyclone Larry Relief Hotline (180 2002) has taken around 18 000 calls for assistance and remains open seven days a week between 7am and 9pm.

Customers can also refer to the Centrelink website for more information at www.centrelink.gov.au

For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink Media Contact.