South Australian households facing financial difficulties are encouraged to apply for various cost-of-living concessions before the application window closes on December 31, 2024. Eligible households could receive financial assistance of up to $1,100 to help ease the burden of rising living expenses.
Who is Eligible for the Cost-of-Living Concessions?
The financial support targets residents with low or fixed incomes, such as seniors, families, single parents, and individuals with disabilities. Despite the program’s extensive reach, many eligible households have yet to claim their benefits.
Centrelink Support Available to South Australian Households
The South Australian government provides a range of financial relief options to help residents manage essential living expenses. These are the available concessions:
- Cost of Living: Up to $255.60
- Energy: Up to $274.85
- Water: Up to $398.40
- Sewerage: Up to $162.20
- Medical Heating and Cooling: Up to $274.85
- Emergency Services Levy: Up to $46
In addition, more than 400,000 Seniors Card holders will enjoy free public transport starting January 1, 2025. Public transport concessions will also extend to individuals with Centrelink Health Care Cards.
Additional Support for Families
The South Australian government has introduced several initiatives to further support families and reduce educational and extracurricular costs. These include:
- Sports Voucher Program: Families will receive two $100 vouchers per child in 2025 to help cover extracurricular activity costs.
- School Subsidies: The subsidy for materials and services charges in government schools will double to $200 per child starting in 2025.
Encouragement from the South Australian Government
Human Services Minister Nat Cook emphasized the importance of these concessions for vulnerable households facing the rising cost of living. She noted that while a quarter of South Australian households are already benefiting from these programs, many eligible households have not yet applied.
She encouraged residents to check their eligibility and apply for the 2024-2025 Cost of Living Concession before the December 31 deadline. Applications can be submitted online or through the Concessions SA hotline.
How to Apply for Centrelink Cost of Living Payment
Eligible residents can apply for the Centrelink Cost of Living Payment through the official Concessions SA portal. Alternatively, applications can be made by calling the Concessions SA hotline at 1800 307 758 to request an application form by post.
Conclusion
These cost-of-living concessions represent the South Australian government’s ongoing commitment to supporting households during challenging financial times. By offering targeted assistance, the government aims to reduce financial pressure on vulnerable households, helping them maintain access to essential services and opportunities. Be sure to apply before the deadline to take advantage of the available support.