Sharman Stone MP

 

Dr Sharman Stone, Federal Member for Murray, is encouraging all those affected by recent downpours and who were receiving Exceptional Circumstances to update their income estimates with Centrelink as soon as possible so their payments can be revised.

 

“Many people had advised Centrelink that they were expecting higher incomes as crops and orchards were looking promising.

 

“Centrelink had adjusted their Exceptional circumstances relief payments according to estimated income, so many have received reduced payments. Others farmers had decided to let their EC Relief payments terminate as they were expecting a better seasonal return and are no longer receiving any help at all.

 

“Centrelink has advised that all those affected by flooding are eligible to have their payments revised, so I encourage those affected to call Centrelink on 13 23 16 straight away.

 

Sharman said although it would bring relief that Centrelink would revise its current Exceptional Circumstances Relief payments, the Gillard Labor Government’s failure to commit to the continue payments beyond March next year was appalling.

 

 “Just because we have a lot of rain, doesn’t mean all our troubles have disappeared.

 

“It will take more than one season to resurrect the years of extra debt and poor returns to farms and small businesses, particularly after recent flooding damage and locusts have made it so hard.”