In an unprecedented move, the South Australian government has significantly expanded its Cost of Living Concession (COLC), ensuring more residents receive much-needed financial support.
This measure, part of a broader government effort to alleviate the pressure on struggling households, aims to provide relief to a record number of South Australians. The changes, which include the removal of income tests for housemates, will benefit tens of thousands more low-income renters and pensioners across the state.
The expanded eligibility for the COLC comes at a critical time, as many families are facing soaring living costs. With essential bills like groceries, electricity, and rent continuing to climb, the Malinauskas Labor Government’s decision to widen access to financial relief offers a timely solution. The initiative is expected to deliver substantial assistance, with up to 225,000 households now set to receive the annual payment.
Expanded Eligibility for a Broader Reach
According to the South Australian government, the key change to the Cost of Living Concession is the removal of the co-resident income test. Previously, individuals living with housemates or co-tenants were often ineligible for assistance if their co-tenant earned too much. This change ensures that those in shared accommodation—who may be in genuine need but were excluded due to their housemate’s income—will no longer miss out.
With the new eligibility criteria in place, the state expects a significant increase in the number of recipients. The payment, which amounts to $261.90 annually, will now be automatically issued to all eligible recipients, including pensioners and renters. This adjustment is part of a broader effort to provide financial relief to South Australians who need it most, building on previous measures such as permanently doubling the concession for renters and self-funded retirees.
A Range of Additional Cost-of-Living Measures
The expanded COLC is only one part of a series of government initiatives aimed at addressing the financial challenges faced by low-income South Australians. In addition to the expanded concession, the government has introduced a variety of other support measures, including reducing the cost of student MetroCards (from $28 to $10) and increasing access to the Emergency Electricity Payment Scheme.
This year’s changes will also see an increase in the asset threshold for funeral assistance and greater support for Companion Card holders, with enhanced access to Changing Places facilities. According to Minister Nat Cook, these initiatives are designed to make a real difference to families and individuals struggling with everyday costs. “These payments will begin arriving in bank accounts from this week, at a time many people can most benefit from support,” she said.
The new payment structure, which will see continued weekly disbursements for new applicants until December 2025, provides further assurance that the government is committed to providing consistent financial relief to its residents.
