South Australians on low or fixed incomes are being urged to take advantage of cost-of-living relief programs before the year-end deadline on 31 December 2024. With up to $1,100 in financial support available, the initiative aims to ease the burden on eligible households struggling with rising expenses. Despite this support, thousands of households who qualify have yet to apply.
What Support Is Available?
The South Australian government provides a range of concessions to help with everyday expenses. These include:
| Type of Relief | Amount Available |
|---|---|
| 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 |
Additional Benefits
- Free Public Transport: Available for Seniors Card holders and, starting 1 January 2025, extended to individuals with Centrelink Health Care Cards.
- Sports Voucher Program: Two $100 grants in 2025 to help families cover childrenโs extracurricular activity costs.
- School Subsidies: The materials and services charge subsidy will double to $200 per child for government schools in 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for these concessions varies but generally requires one of the following:
Eligible 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
Income Thresholds
Applicants may also qualify if they are on a low income, even without holding a concession card.
How to Apply
Eligible households can apply online through the Concessions SA website or by calling the Concessions SA hotline at 1800 307 758 to request a mailed application.
Why This Matters
With the rising cost of living, programs like these offer essential support to South Australians facing financial hardship. Human Services Minister Nat Cook emphasized that while approximately 25% of households are already benefiting, many eligible families, single parents, older residents, and individuals with disabilities are missing out.
โItโs critical for those who qualify to take action before the 31 December 2024 deadline,โ said Cook, urging residents to check their eligibility.
The cost-of-living relief program provides vital financial assistance to South Australian households in need. With a range of concessions available and deadlines looming, itโs important for eligible residents to apply promptly. The governmentโs efforts to extend these benefits, such as free transport and increased school subsidies, further highlight its commitment to easing financial strain for vulnerable communities.
FAQs
What is the deadline for cost-of-living relief?
The application deadline is 31 December 2024.
How much support can households receive?
Eligible households can access up to $1,100 in concessions.
Who qualifies for these concessions?
Those with eligible concession cards, Centrelink payments, or low income.
How can I apply for the relief?
Apply online or call the Concessions SA hotline at 1800 307 758.
What additional benefits are offered?
Free transport for cardholders, sports vouchers, and school subsidies.
