The DPI NSW stress the importance of reporting all cases of EI. Simply call their hotline on 1800 675 888. This is a huge help to the DPI in tracking the disease.

Please see these Links to items on the EFA NSW website:

CHAPs Applications Forms
Please be advised that the Commercial Horse Assistance Payment (CHAP) application forms are now available on the EFA NSW website.

CHAPS HOTLINE
If you have queries about your application you can contact the CHAPS Hotline on:
Phone: 1800 859 611
Fax: 1800 644 337

www.efansw.com.au/?Page=15507

Phone queries can be directed to 02 9620 2660

EI ZONING
Click here to see information on EI Zoning:

www.efansw.com.au/?Page=15444

EQUINE WORKERS HARDSHIP FUND
Please encourage all people affected by the EI outbreak to apply for the Equine Influenza Hardship Grant. Funds up to $1500 are available to pay bills eg. feed, farrier, household bills etc, or grocery vouchers are also available. The forms are available on the EFA NSW website (please see link below) and the applications will be administered through Racing NSW.

www.efansw.com.au/?Page=15359

CENTRELINK ASSISTANCE ROADSHOW
Please see the attached link to Centrelink Assistance Roadshow info places, dates and times. Please tell all who could use.

www.efansw.com.au/?Page=15394

VACCINATION
Attached at the top of this newsletter is a communiqué issued by the National Management Group on the issue of vaccination.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Financial assistance is available for those affected by EI. See the EFA NSW website www.efansw.com.au to find more details. If you are not sure whether you are eligible, start keeping receipts for your horse related expenses as details of eligibility are still being finalised. See more details from the EFA at end of this email.


FROM EFA NSW re. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE for those affected by EI

It has come to our attention that some people have had difficulty in dealing with Centrelink in regards to what they can and cannot claim for. Please pass on the following advice to all concerned into the correct process for gaining the grants currently available for people affected by EI.

When enquiring about the Centrelink grants please be advised that it is preferable to ring the hot line number rather than go in to Centrelink as these people are trained and advised as to the current situation. The number to ring is 1800 234 002.

Do not ask for the “Newstart” instead you tell them you are needing the Equine Workers Hardship Wage Supplement Payment. The allowance is the equivalent to the Newstart payments of $424.30 (for singles) per fortnight but some of the testing and requirements differ eg. you do not need to seek other work.

When enquiring about the business grant, again make sure that you use the term Equine Influenza Business Assistance Grant.

Please continue to visit www.efansw.com.au for updates on financial assistance.

Kind regards

Laura Decker

Sport Development Manager
Equestrian Federation of Australia (NSW) Inc.
Ph: 02 9620 2660
Fx: 02 9620 2260
www.efansw.com.au