Are you confused about the disaster support available? Understandable!

There's plenty of help available, but is it federal, or is it state support? And are you a Blues fan or do you barrack for the Maroons? No wonder it’s hard to keep up.

The fact that there are fake and fraudulent disaster support agencies out there creates confusion too.

But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Services Australia has put together some information to clear up the confusion and help the people affected by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

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Let me clarify government disaster support

Firstly, there is the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). This is where the Australian Government and state and territory governments work together to provide support to people who are affected by a natural disaster event, like ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

The state or territory government decides who gets this assistance and what type of assistance — but I’ll explain more about this later.

During major disasters, the Australian Government may also provide the following financial support:

• Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA)

DRA can provide up to 13 weeks of income support for people living and working in affected areas who have lost some or all of their income due to the disaster.

For example, if you couldn’t get into work or your business couldn’t operate because of the floods, and you’ve lost income then you could be eligible for DRA.

• Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP)

AGDRP is a one-off payment of $1,000 per adult and $400 per child for those who were significantly affected by the disaster and need assistance.

For example, if your principal place of residence has been destroyed or sustained major damage as a direct result of the disaster.

And this is where Services Australia comes in.

Eligibility and how to apply

AGDRP and DRA have been announced for people in some parts of QLD and NSW who have been directly impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

It's important people check their eligibility for these payments on the Services Australia website.

The last thing we want is for people to rush and make a claim for the wrong support — leaving them out of pocket and without much-needed help. Make sure you’re applying for the payment that reflects your personal situation and circumstance.