Cost of Living Concession for 2025: Living expenses continue to rise, and many Australians are looking for ways to ease financial strain. The $243.90 Cost of Living Concession (COLC) for 2025 is designed to provide much-needed financial relief to eligible individuals and households. If you qualify, this government payment can help cover essential costs such as utilities, groceries, and rent.
To ensure you don’t miss out, we’ve compiled all the key details, including eligibility criteria, payment dates, and how to apply.
Australia’s $243.90 Cost of Living Concession for 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $243.90 (households may receive more) |
| Eligibility | Low-income individuals, pensioners, concession cardholders, and select Centrelink recipients |
| Application Deadline | December 31, 2025 |
| Payment Dates | Between August and December 2025 |
| How to Apply | SA.GOV.AU |
| Use of Funds | Bills, rent, groceries, transport, or other essential expenses |
The $243.90 Cost of Living Concession (COLC) for 2025 provides vital financial relief for eligible Australians. Whether you are a pensioner, low-income earner, or concession cardholder, this one-time payment can help ease the burden of rising living costs.
By ensuring your application is complete and submitted on time, you can secure financial assistance to cover essential expenses.
Understanding the Cost of Living Concession
The Cost of Living Concession (COLC) is an annual payment provided by the South Australian government to assist residents with daily expenses. This initiative is specifically targeted at low-income households, pensioners, and concession cardholders to help offset the growing cost of essentials.
Previously, the COLC was set at $255.60 in 2024, and while the 2025 amount is slightly adjusted, it still provides substantial relief to eligible recipients.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2025 Cost of Living Concession, you must meet the following criteria as of July 1, 2025:
- Residency Requirements
- You must reside in South Australia.
- The property you claim for must be your principal place of residence.
- Income & Benefits Criteria
- You must be a holder of an eligible concession card, a recipient of certain Centrelink payments, or meet low-income thresholds.
Eligible Concession Cards
- Pensioner Concession Card
- Veteran Gold Card
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Low-Income Health Care Card
Eligible Centrelink Payments
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Parenting Payment
- Special Benefit
- ABSTUDY & Austudy
- Farm Household Allowance
Low-Income Thresholds (2025)
Individuals who do not receive benefits but have a low income may also qualify. Below are the income limits per fortnight before tax:
- Single: Up to $912.70
- Single with children: Up to $966.90
- Couples (combined): Up to $1,696.60
Payment Dates & How to Receive Your COLC
The Cost of Living Concession payment for 2025 is a one-time payment processed via electronic funds transfer (EFT) directly to your bank account.
Payment Schedule
- Payments will be issued between August and December 2025.
- Exact dates depend on when applications are processed.
- If you have previously received COLC and your details remain unchanged, you will be automatically considered.
How to Apply for the Cost of Living Concession
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
- Check Eligibility
- Review the eligibility criteria above.
- Ensure your personal details match official records.
- Prepare Required Documents
- Your concession card or Centrelink details.
- Proof of residence, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
- Your bank account details.
- Submit Your Application
- Online via the SA.GOV.AU website.
- Call the ConcessionsSA Hotline at 1800 307 758 if you need assistance.
- Track Your Application
- If your application is successful, you’ll receive a confirmation email.
- Payments will be deposited between August and December 2025.
- Troubleshooting Application Issues
- If your application is delayed, contact ConcessionsSA for an update.
- Ensure you have provided correct banking details to prevent processing errors.
- Updating Personal Information
- If you change your address or banking details, update them promptly on the SA.GOV.AU website.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cost of Living Concession for 2025
1. What can I use the COLC payment for?
You can use the COLC payment to cover essential living costs such as electricity bills, rent, groceries, medical expenses, or public transport.
2. Do I need to reapply if I received the COLC last year?
If your details remain unchanged, you do not need to reapply. However, it’s essential to check that your banking details are up-to-date.
3. What happens if I miss the application deadline?
Applications close on December 31, 2025. If you miss the deadline, you will not receive the payment for the 2025 financial year and will need to wait for 2026.
4. Can renters apply for the COLC?
Yes! Renters, homeowners, and retirement village residents are all eligible if they meet the other criteria.
5. Where can I get help with my application?
For assistance, visit the SA.GOV.AU website or call the ConcessionsSA Hotline: 1800 307 758.
