South Australian households facing financial pressures are encouraged to apply for a range of cost-of-living concessions before the application window closes on December 31, 2024. These concessions are designed to provide financial relief to eligible households, offering up to $1,100 in financial assistance to ease the burden of rising living expenses. Here’s everything you need to know about these concessions.
Centrelink Support Available to South Australian Households
The South Australian government offers various types of financial relief to residents, particularly those in need. Below is a breakdown of the available support:
| Type of Relief | Maximum Payment Amount |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | $255.60 |
| Energy | $274.85 |
| Water | Up to $398.40 |
| Sewerage | $162.20 |
| Medical Heating and Cooling | $274.85 |
| Emergency Services Levy | $46 |
In addition to these payments, the government is offering free public transport for more than 400,000 Seniors Card holders. Starting January 1, 2025, this benefit will be extended to all individuals with Centrelink Health Care Cards.
Additional Support for Families
Families also stand to gain from initiatives aimed at lowering educational and extracurricular costs. These include:
- Sports Voucher Program: In 2025, families will receive two $100 vouchers per child to offset the cost of extracurricular activities, encouraging participation in sports and other hobbies.
- School Subsidies: The materials and services charge subsidy for children in government schools will double to $200 per child starting in 2025, helping to reduce the financial strain of education.
Encouragement from the South Australian Government
Human Services Minister Nat Cook emphasized the importance of these concessions for vulnerable households grappling with rising costs. She shared:
“With rising costs affecting everyone, we know that a quarter of South Australian households are already benefiting from these concessions. However, there are still many more who may be eligible but haven’t applied yet.”
Cook strongly urged residents to check their eligibility and apply for the 2024-25 Cost of Living Concession before the December 31 deadline. Applications can be submitted either online or by contacting the Concessions SA hotline.
Who Is Eligible for These Cost-of-Living Concessions?
Eligibility for these concessions varies depending on the type of support, but generally includes households that meet one of the following criteria:
- Qualifying Concession Cards:
- Pensioner Concession Card
- Veteran Gold Card
- Low Income Health Care Card
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Eligible Centrelink Payments:
- JobSeeker
- Youth Allowance
- Parenting Payment
- Special Benefit
- ABSTUDY
These categories ensure that the financial assistance reaches those who need it most, including low or fixed-income earners, older residents, families, single parents, and individuals with disabilities.
How to Apply for Centrelink Cost of Living Payment?
Applications for the Centrelink Cost of Living Payment can be made in the following ways:
- Online: Through the official Concessions SA portal.
- By Phone: Call the Concessions SA hotline at 1800 307 758 to request an application form by post.
Residents are encouraged to act quickly to ensure they secure the support they are entitled to, especially with the fast-approaching deadline of December 31, 2024.
Final Thoughts
These programs highlight the South Australian government’s commitment to supporting residents during challenging financial times. By offering targeted assistance, the government aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens on vulnerable households, ensuring they can access essential services and opportunities.
If you believe you qualify for any of these concessions, now is the time to act. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to ease the financial strain on your household and make the most of the assistance available.
