South Australian households facing financial hardship are being urged to apply for a range of cost-of-living concessions before the December 31, 2024, deadline. Eligible households could receive up to $1,100 in financial support to help manage the increasing cost of essential services.
These concessions are designed to assist low- and fixed-income earners, including seniors, families, single parents, and individuals with disabilities. However, despite the broad eligibility, many residents have yet to claim their benefits.
Available Centrelink Support for South Australian Residents
The South Australian government has introduced several concessions aimed at easing the financial burden on residents. Here is an overview of the available relief:
- 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 financial payments, the government offers free public transport for over 400,000 Seniors Card holders. Starting January 1, 2025, individuals with a Centrelink Health Care Card will also be eligible for these public transport concessions.
Extra Support for Families
The South Australian government has extended its support to families, particularly with initiatives designed to help offset educational and extracurricular costs. These include:
- Sports Voucher Program: Families will receive two $100 vouchers per child in 2025, which can be used for extracurricular activities.
- School Subsidies: Starting in 2025, the subsidy for materials and services charges for children in government schools will increase to $200 per child.
Government Encouragement for Applications
Human Services Minister Nat Cook emphasized the importance of these concessions, especially as the cost-of-living crisis continues to affect many South Australian households.
“Rising costs are a concern for all, and we know that a quarter of South Australian households are already benefiting from these concessions. But there are still many who are eligible and have yet to apply,” Cook said. She urged residents to check their eligibility and submit applications for the 2024-25 Cost of Living Concession before the December 31 deadline. Applications can be made online or by contacting the Concessions SA hotline.
Who Can Apply for These Cost-of-Living Concessions?
Eligibility criteria for the various concessions may vary, but generally, households that meet the following conditions are eligible:
- Hold a qualifying concession card (e.g., Pensioner Concession Card, Veteran Gold Card, Low Income Health Care Card, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card)
- Receive a Centrelink payment (e.g., JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Special Benefit, ABSTUDY)
- Have a low income
How to Apply for the Centrelink Cost-of-Living Payment
Residents can apply for these concessions online through the official Concessions SA portal or by calling the Concessions SA hotline at 1800 307 758 to request an application form by post. It is crucial to act promptly to ensure timely processing of applications and secure the support you are entitled to.
These concessions reflect the South Australian government’s ongoing commitment to supporting its residents during challenging financial times. By providing targeted assistance, the government aims to reduce the financial strain on vulnerable households, allowing them to access essential services and resources.
