COVID-19 VIC: Individuals – Extreme Hardship Support Program

This program aims to provide financial assistance, information and referrals to people living in Victoria who are experiencing significant hardship as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and are unable to access other forms of Victorian Government and Commonwealth Government income support. It is targeted to support the most vulnerable in the community – including temporary and provisional visa holders and undocumented migrants with little or no income, savings or community support.

From 1 October 2020 a single person can receive up to $800 for their first application and may be able to apply for another payment after two months if they are still experiencing financial hardship. Families may receive more, based on the number of people in the family and individual circumstances.

People who have already received $400 as at 1 October 2020 can apply straight away for another payment of $400. They will then be eligible for a further $800 in two months time if they are still experiencing financial hardship.

The program also provides information and referrals to those in need. 

Eligible applicants must:
- Live in Victoria.
- Not be eligible to receive income from the Commonwealth Government (such as JobKeeper or JobSeeker).
- Not have received a payment from the International Student Emergency Relief Fund.
- Have zero or very limited income, savings or community support.
- Be a temporary or provisional visa holder, or an undocumented migrant.