The South Australian Government has announced an expansion of its Cost of Living Concession (COLC) program, aimed at easing financial pressures for tens of thousands of residents. The latest changes mean that nearly 225,000 households will receive direct payments this year, following the removal of a key eligibility restriction.
This move comes amid continued cost of living challenges across Australia, with the SA Government positioning the initiative as a targeted effort to assist vulnerable groups. By eliminating the co-resident income test, the government expects to support an additional 50,000 households, particularly low-income renters previously excluded due to the income of a housemate or co-tenant.
Major Changes Expand Access and Increase Impact
According to official government figures, the COLC will now deliver a standard annual payment of $261.90, automatically transferred into the accounts of eligible pensioners, renters, and self-funded retirees. The payments began rolling out this week and require no action from those who were eligible as of 1 July.
The most significant policy change is the removal of the co-resident income test, which had previously disqualified individuals living with higher-earning housemates. This adjustment allows more residents in shared housing arrangements to qualify for financial support.
Speaking on the decision, Minister Nat Cook stated, “Cost of Living Concessions provide essential help to those most in need, and as a government, we’ve been focused on making the most difference where we can.”
The updated scheme is expected to distribute approximately $60 million in direct financial aid across the state in 2025. In recent years, the government has also permanently doubled COLC payments for renters and self-funded retirees, reinforcing its commitment to address household affordability.
Broader Support Package Targets Basic Expenses
In addition to the COLC adjustment, the South Australian Government has implemented a range of other financial relief measures. These include a reduction in student MetroCard costs, expansion of the Emergency Electricity Payment Scheme, and increased access to funeral assistance grants.
Further initiatives involve improved access to Changing Places facilities for Companion Card holders and an extension of the Home Dialysis Concession, reflecting a broader strategy to support low-income and medically vulnerable citizens.
For new applicants, weekly COLC payments will begin upon successful registration and continue until 31 December 2025, marking the cut-off for the 2025/2026 cycle. Residents can apply online or through the Concessions Hotline at 1800 307 758.
According to Allison Barrott, a long-term resident and mother of four, the assistance is meaningful: “Every little bit helps. With four boys, the bills never stop, so this relief really takes some pressure off. As a mum in her 50s still supporting my family, it’s reassuring to know there’s help available when things get tight.”
