The rising cost of living has put financial pressure on many Australians, prompting government support through various concessions. In South Australia, eligible residents can receive up to $1,100 in cost-of-living relief through government concessions. These payments help with everyday expenses, such as energy bills, water rates, and medical costs.
Understanding the $1,100 Cost of Living Payment
The South Australian Cost of Living Concession (COLC) is designed to assist low-income households with essential expenses. The maximum assistance available includes payments for general cost-of-living support, energy, water, sewerage, and emergency services levies. Households can receive up to $1,100, with specific amounts allocated for each category.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify, applicants must meet income and residency criteria as of July 1 of the relevant financial year. They must reside at the property they are claiming for and hold a valid concession card or receive an eligible Centrelink payment. Those who do not hold a concession card may still qualify if they meet the income limits set for low-income earners.
Accepted concession cards include the Pensioner Concession Card, Veteran Gold Card, Low Income Health Care Card, and the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card. Certain Centrelink payments also grant eligibility, such as JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Austudy, ABSTUDY, and the Farm Household Allowance.
Income limits apply to ensure the support reaches those most in need. For the 2024-25 financial year, a single person must earn no more than $912.70 per fortnight, while a single parent can earn up to $966.90. Couples have a combined limit of $1,696.60 per fortnight.
How to Apply
Applications for the Cost of Living Concession must be submitted by December 31 of the relevant financial year. Eligible residents can apply online through ConcessionsSA or update their details to ensure payments are processed correctly.
Required information includes a Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN) or Department of Veterans’ Affairs file number, recent utility bills, bank account details, and emergency services levy assessments for homeowners.
Additional Support Available
Alongside the COLC, the South Australian government is offering additional financial relief. From January 2025, all Centrelink Health Care Card holders will be eligible for public transport concessions.
The materials and services charge subsidy for public school students will increase to $200 per child, and the Sports Voucher Program will allow families to claim two $100 vouchers per child each year for extracurricular activities.
Conclusion
With the rising cost of living, financial support programs such as the South Australian Cost of Living Concession provide much-needed relief to eligible households. Understanding the application process and meeting eligibility criteria ensures that residents receive the financial assistance they are entitled to.