Support for members affected by natural disaster

On Tuesday, 4 April, Federation Executive authorised a number of financial support options for members affected by the recent floods. “Federation offers its support to affected members and their families at this time,” Acting General Secretary David Wynne said in an email sent to members in affected areas.

The email provided details of the following assistance to members directly affected by natural disasters:

  • Members suffering financial hardship can apply for an exemption of up to six months from their contributions to the union. Written applications would need to be made by the individual member, explaining their circumstances.
  • Individual members can apply for an ex-gratia payment of up to $1000 to cover those teaching resources lost as a result of the flooding but not covered by other forms of general insurance. This too is by individual application to the Federation.

Federation’s Lismore office has been extensively damaged and all calls to the Lismore office are being diverted to head office. Individual members and Federation Representatives in need of further advice have been asked to contact Professional Support on 1300 654 367 or email [email protected].

Members of Teachers Health who have been adversely affected by these floods should contact Jane Stower ([email protected]) as they could qualify for financial assistance with their health insurance payments.