Australia $243.90 Cost of Living Concession April 2025: The rising cost of living continues to present challenges for many Australian households, particularly those on low or fixed incomes. In response to these economic pressures, the South Australian government offers the Cost of Living Concession, a financial support program designed to ease the burden of everyday expenses. Currently valued at $243.90, this concession provides critical relief to eligible residents struggling with utilities, groceries, and other essential services.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the Cost of Living Concession program: who qualifies, how to apply for Australia $243.90 Cost of Living Concession April 2025, payment details, and complementary support services. Whether you’re a pensioner, low-income earner, or someone experiencing financial hardship, understanding this valuable government assistance could significantly impact your household budget.
Is the Australia $243.90 Cost of Living Concession April 2025 Real?
The $243.90 Cost of Living Concession was a legitimate one-time payment issued by the South Australian Government in June 2024. It was part of a broader $266.2 million support package under the 2024–25 state budget. While this payment is no longer being distributed in 2025, a revised annual concession of $255.60 is still active and available for eligible South Australians.
| Payment Type | Amount | Issued | Eligibility | Deadline |
| One-off COLC (2024) | $243.90 | June 2024 | SA residents on low income or concession cards | Payment closed |
| Annual COLC (2024–25) | $255.60 | Aug–Dec 2024 | Homeowners, tenants, CSHC holders | 31 December 2024 |
What Was the $243.90 COLC Payment?
The $243.90 Cost of Living Concession was designed to help households cover rising winter expenses. Distributed in mid-2024, it supported over 210,000 eligible residents—especially:
- Pensioners
- Low-income tenants
- Recipients of Centrelink payments
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders
This payment was separate from the ongoing COLC, meaning many households received both.
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What’s Available in April 2025?
Although the $243.90 payment has ended, the annual Cost of Living Concession has been increased to $255.60 for all eligible individuals.
New Annual COLC Amount
- $255.60/year (previously $127.80 for some categories)
- Applies to homeowners, renters, and eligible cardholders
- Paid automatically to previous recipients (if no changes in details)
Who Is Eligible for the 2024–25 COLC?
To qualify for the current Cost of Living Concession, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Residency Requirements:
- Must reside in South Australia
- Must live at the property for which you’re claiming
Concession Card Holders or Income-Based Eligibility:
You must either:
- Hold an eligible concession card:
- Pensioner Concession Card
- DVA Gold Card
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Low Income Health Care Card
- Or receive a qualifying Centrelink payment (e.g. JobSeeker, DSP, Age Pension)
- Or meet low-income household thresholds
Additional Conditions for Tenants:
- Must have a valid rental agreement
- Other adults’ income must be within the permitted threshold (unless they are dependents/partners)
How to Apply for the Australia $243.90 Cost of Living Concession April 2025?
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather:
- Centrelink CRN or DVA file number
- Utility bills (water/electricity)
- Emergency Services Levy info (for homeowners)
- Bank account details
Step 2: Apply Online or via Phone
- Online portal: sa.gov.au/concessions
- Phone: Call 1800 307 758 to request a paper form
Step 3: Apply by 31 December 2024
This ensures you receive payment within the 2024–25 financial year.
What If Your Details Have Changed?
If you’ve:
- Moved to a new address
- Changed your bank details
- Shifted from renting to owning (or vice versa)
You must update your information immediately to avoid missing out on payments.
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Common Issues & Quick Fixes
| Problem | Solution |
| Haven’t received payment | Contact ConcessionsSA to verify your details |
| Moved house | Update your residential status on the portal |
| Living with working partner | Check combined income eligibility (still may qualify) |
Why the COLC Matters in 2025?
With inflation continuing to pressure household budgets, energy, housing, and grocery prices remain high in South Australia.
The COLC helps to:
- Offset utility costs
- Reduce financial stress
- Support low-income renters and retirees
- Complement federal benefits like the Energy Bill Relief
FAQs About Australia $243.90 Cost of Living Concession April 2025
Do I need to reapply for the annual COLC?
If your details haven’t changed, you’ll receive it automatically. Otherwise, you must reapply or update your information.
Is the Cost of Living Concession taxable?
No, the COLC is a non-taxable state-funded benefit.
Can I receive both COLC and other rebates?
Yes, you can receive COLC in addition to federal energy relief payments or other support schemes.
Are self-funded retirees eligible?
Yes, as long as you hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, you can apply.