The payments - from the Drought Community Support Initiative - were announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison were announced at the beginning of October, but are only now becoming available.

The program is intended to provide immediate financial assistance to enable those in need to buy food and essentials at their local businesses.

But St Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army, the charities chosen by the government to handle the distribution of the payments, had to establish processes to assess applications before the money could be handed out.

Toby O'Connor, the chief executive officer of St Vincent de Paul, said up to $15 million will be given to people experiencing hardship in drought affected areas across Qld, NSW, Victoria and South Australia, with eligible farmers, farm workers and farm suppliers and contractors receiving the payment.

"The process will be as straight forward as possible for people who are seeking help under very difficult circumstances," Mr O'Connor said.

"The federal government has earmarked eligible local government areas. Half will be serviced by the St Vincent de Paul Society and the other half by The Salvation Army."

In the wider Riverina, St Vincent de Paul will be handling applications from eligible farmers in Balranald, Hay and Hilltops local government areas. Applications can be made here.

The Salvation Army will process applications from Bland, Carrathool, Coolamon, Leeton, Lockhart, Narrandera and Temora. Applications can be started here.

"In a test-run late yesterday, money was distributed into the accounts of 86 eligible applicants,' Mr O'Connor said.

"We are ready to roll, and I encourage people who think they might be eligible to visit the website for more information, including frequently asked questions.

"Alternatively, people can call the drought relief team on 1300 846 643 for assistance."

Temora mayor Rick Firman has urged anyone who thinks they may be eligible for the $3000 payment to lodge an application.

"It is really important that people don't self-assess. There are so many different assessments, it can be confusing." Councillor Firman said.

"I think we've all got pride, but we need to realise our government, people and community are there to help.

"Everyone goes through tough times, we need to take up these opportunities for help. Then when it gets better, we can help others."

Cr Firman said the grants would help not only the people who received them, but the wider community when the money was spent.

"But the most important thing is to keep supporting each other, keep supporting our friends and neighbours and keep remembering people who are doing it tough," he said.

"Even a simple phone call to someone who really needs it could make a difference."