Prime Minister approves more $1,500 handouts
Residents in New South Wales with no leave entitlements will now be able to access a one-off $1,500 payment for each time they are required to self-isolate or quarantine, state premier Gladys Berejiklian confirmed.
The $1,500 pandemic leave disaster payment is also available to those who are caring for someone who has contracted Covid-19, and includes temporary visa holders.
"NSW is successfully managing the Covid-19 pandemic, including through contact tracing and the country’s highest testing rates," Berejiklian said.
"By introducing the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment we are ensuring we continue to do everything we can to protect the community against undetected transmission.”
The premier said the state was partnering with the Commonwealth to provide the payments.
Also read: How to access $1,500 disaster payments
"We do not want some workers to have to choose between isolating and financially supporting themselves or their dependents."
NSW treasurer, Dominic Perrottet, said the leave payment would support the state’s health and economic stimulus measures, and provide assistance to workers who don’t have access to leave and who might otherwise be getting tested for the virus.
NSW is the latest state to introduce the leave payment, which first kicked off in Victoria in early August. It comes days after the Western Australian government confirmed it had implemented the pandemic leave payments.
South Australia and Tasmania have also introduced the payments.
How do I claim the $1,500 pandemic leave payment?
The quickest way to claim the pandemic leave payment is to call Services Australia on 180 22 66 and apply over the phone.
You can also print and complete this form and fax it through to 1300 727 760.
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