Legal Aid NSW is operating the service, available via its helpline 1800 801 529. The service is providing assitance with with insurance claims, social security benefits and other legal problems associated with natural disasters.
Disaster recovery – useful resources and services:
The Disaster Response Legal Service NSW - 1800 801 529
Legal Aid NSW can give you free legal advice if you have been affected by bushfires or floods in New South Wales, for instance if:
- your home has been damaged (help is available to both owner and tenant)
- you have insurance or repair problems
- your job has been affected by the floods or fires
- you need help renegotiating credit commitments due to loss of income from the disaster
BUSHFIRE EMERGENCY - getting legal help podcast
Ma'ata Solofoni from the Disaster Response Legal Service NSW talks about the new service and how it's providing free legal help for people in NSW affected by bushfires. The service can help with types of legal issues such as insurance claims, tenancy, financial hardship, credit and debt, Centrelink and issues with employment.
What to do after a natural disaster - factsheets:
Factsheet 1: What to do straight away
What to do after a natural disaster - insurance tips including how to get emergency money and accommodation.
Factsheet 2: What should I expect from my insurance company?
Information about dealing with your insurance company after a natural disaster.
Factsheet 3: Has the insurance company offered you a cash settlement?
What you should do if an insurance company offers you a cash settlement on your property after a natural disaster.
Factsheet 4: I don't agree with the insurers decision
If you don't agree with your insurers decision after a natural disaster, there are steps you can take.
Factsheet 5: Where can I get more help?
Where to get help and advice when dealing with your insurance company after a natural disaster.
Standard letters you can use to write to your insurance company after a natural disaster.
Advice for tenants who have been affected
Factsheet: Disaster damage - As a tenant you have rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. This factsheet is about damage to rented premises that is neither the fault of the landlord nor the tenant - the result of a storm, fire or flood, or other causes of such damage.
Find your local Tenants' Advice Service here
Workplace rights during natural disasters - this factsheet answers questions you might have about your workplace rights during a natural disaster or emergency.
Getting help after a disaster - a Legal Aid NSW resource
Financial Rights Legal Centre
If you have lost property due to bushfire you are able to get free and independent legal advice about your car, building and contents insurance from the Financial Rights Legal Centre's Insurance Law Service on 1300 663 464
Insurance Council of Australia's (ICA) Disaster Hotline
Bushfire Housing Assistance Service
Call Bushfire Housing Assistance Service on 1800 018 444. They can help with housing support, temporary accomodation, Rentstart Bond Loan & Advance rent. This service is available to anyone affected by bushfire state-wide.
Search for support services and agencies - a free, anonymous website, available 24/7 with information on health, financial, counselling, food and support assistance in your local area.
Are you in Victoria?
Call Disaster Legal Help Victoria on 1800 133 432
Are you in Queensland?
Call Natural disaster legal help on 1300 004 924
