Check your eligibility for the NSW government's disaster payment

The two regions were declared Commonwealth hotspots on Monday and Saturday respectively.

Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said it was critical to look after regional Australia during lockdowns.

"Tamworth and Armidale are major regional centres for this part of NSW and it is important that they remain functioning as effectively as possible to service not only their own areas, but also the wider agricultural community," he said.

"I hope this gives families and individuals some peace of mind."

Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience, Senator Bridget McKenzie, said people should check their eligibility for the payments.

"We stand shoulder to shoulder with Australians impacted by the global pandemic and continue to provide a safety net to support communities that are in lockdown," she said.

Eligible workers can receive $750 per week if they have lost 20 or more hours of work, and $450 per week if they have lost between eight and less than 20 hours of work, or a full day of work.

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"People currently receiving an income support payment can also claim an extra payment of $200 if they have lost eight hours or more of work and meet the other eligibility requirements for the COVID-19 Disaster Payment," Senator McKenzie said.

More information about the COVID-19 Disaster Payment and how to claim is online at: servicesaustralia.gov.au/covid19disasterpayment

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