1.2.7.80 Remote area allowance (RAA) - description
Objective of RAA
RAA helps to meet additional costs associated with residence in remote areas. It recognises that many income support recipients who do not pay tax, or pay very little tax, do not receive the full benefit of tax zone rebates. RAA makes a contribution towards some of the higher costs associated with living in particularly remote areas.
To qualify for RAA a person must:
- be receiving a social security pension, allowance or benefit
- be physically present in a remote area, AND
- have their usual place of residence situated in a remote area.
The definition of remote area in the SSAct is based on the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 Schedule 2 Parts I & II.
For the purposes of RAA, the remote areas are the specified area of Taxation Zone A, including Special Taxation Zone A and Special Taxation Zone B. The remote areas include the Torres Strait Islands, Lord Howe Island, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Christmas Island.
The following areas specified in Taxation Zone A are NOT part of the RAA specified area:
- Macquarie Island
- Heard Island
- McDonald Islands
- Australian Antarctic Territory, and
- Toorak Research Station.
Act reference: SSAct section 14(1) Remote area definitions
How RAA is paid
RAA is paid fortnightly with the income support recipient's main payment.
Background information
RAA was introduced on 1 May 1984.