COVID-19 Disaster Payment (Funding Arrangements) 2021

# COVID-19 Disaster Payment (Funding Arrangements) Bill 2021 ## What it does This bill sets aside money from the government's main bank account to pay out COVID-19 disaster payments to eligible Australians. It's essentially the legal paperwork that formally authorizes these payments and makes sure there's a proper budget line for them. ## Why it matters Without this bill passing, the government couldn't legally pay out the disaster assistance that people affected by COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions were relying on. It also creates accountability by requiring the government to report annually on how much was paid out and to whom. ## Key details - **Money available**: Funding covers payments made from when this bill passes until 30 June 2022 - **Reporting requirement**: The National Recovery and Resilience Agency must include details about these payments in their yearly financial reports, so the public can see where the money went - **Commencement**: The bill takes effect from 1 July 2021 or when it receives Royal Assent, whichever is later

🔒 Voting closed — this bill has been decided by parliament