Interim Income Support for Farmers:
What is Interim Income Support?
Interim Income Support is delivered by Centrelink on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
Interim Income Support is available to areas that have been announced as having a prima-facie case for Exceptional Circumstances (EC) while the State's application for EC is being considered by the National Rural Advisory Council.
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Who can get Interim Income Support?
To be eligible for Interim Income Support you must:
- be a farmer whose enterprise is located within an eligible area
- be at least 18 years old
- be an Australian resident
- not be getting any other income support payment.
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How much Interim Income Support can I get?
Payments will be made fortnightly at an equivalent Newstart Allowance rate and Partner Allowance (if applicable). Payments will be available for a maximum period of six months or until the area in which your farm is located is declared an EC area - whichever occurs earliest.
An income test similar to that for Newstart Allowance will apply (proceeds from the forced sale of livestock during the period will be exempt subject to certain conditions). An assets test also similar to that for Newstart Allowance will apply however all assets essential to the running of the farm, the farmer's superannuation and life insurance will be exempt.
Note: If an EC declaration is made by the Australian Government for the area in which your farm is located this Interim Income Support will be replaced by Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment.
For more information on assistance once EC is declared, go to the Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment page, or phone the Drought Assistance Line on 13 2316, the Murray-Darling Basin Assistance and Referral Line on FreeCALL™1800 050 015 or the Farmer Assistance Line on FreeCALL™1800 050 585.
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Is Interim Income Support taxable?
Yes. Interim Income Support is a taxable payment.
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How do I claim Interim Income Support?
You can download the claim form from this website, phone the Drought Assistance Line on 13 2316, the Murray-Darling Basin Assistance and Referral Line on FreeCALL™1800 050 015, the Farmer Assistance Line on FreeCALL™1800 050 585 or visit your nearest Centrelink Customer Service Centre.
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How do I find out more?
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