The Cost of Living Concession (COLC) is an essential annual payment designed to ease financial pressure for South Australians on low or fixed incomes—including Centrelink recipients, low-income earners, tenants, and homeowners. The payment helps cover general living expenses such as energy bills, council rates, medical costs, and water services.
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If you’re wondering how to claim your Centrelink COLC payment, update your details, or check your eligibility for the 2025-26 financial year, this comprehensive guide has everything you need to know.
What is the Centrelink COLC Payment?
The COLC is a government support payment delivered via electronic funds transfer (EFT) between August and December each year. The goal is to assist those who face rising living costs and don’t always have the means to absorb them—such as retirees, welfare recipients, and other financially vulnerable groups.
For the 2024–25 financial year, the COLC amount was $255.60 per eligible household. The updated payment amount for 2025–26 will be announced before July 2025.
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Centrelink COLC Payment Details: Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Cost of Living Concession, your eligibility is assessed as of 1 July of the relevant financial year. You may be eligible if:
- You live at the property in question.
- You receive a Centrelink payment, hold an eligible concession card, or meet the low-income thresholds.
- If you’re a tenant, you must have a valid rental agreement (including rooming houses or supported residential facilities).
- Asylum seekers may also qualify under specific provisions.
Eligible Centrelink Cards and Payments Include:
- Pensioner Concession Card
- Health Care Card
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Certain income support payments (e.g. Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, JobSeeker)
Low Income Limits for 2024–25:
| Household Type | Fortnightly Income (Before Tax) | Annual Income (Before Tax) |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $912.70 | $23,730.20 |
| Single with children | $966.90 | $25,139.40 |
| Partnered (combined) | $1,696.60 | $44,111.60 |
How to Apply or Update Your Centrelink COLC Payment Details
You only need to reapply if:
- Your circumstances have changed (e.g. change of address or income)
- You have never received the COLC payment before
To Apply or Update Details, You’ll Need:
- Your Centrelink CRN or Department of Veterans’ Affairs file number
- If neither applies: a copy of your latest tax assessment
- Most recent electricity and water bills
- Notice of Emergency Services Levy Assessment (homeowners only)
- Bank account details (BSB and account number)
Apply Online:
Use the Household Concessions online form to:
- Submit a new COLC application
- Update your address, bank, or utility account details
The application deadline is 31 December each year for that financial year’s payment.
What Happens Next After You Apply?
Once you’re deemed eligible, the COLC payment will be sent directly to your nominated bank account via EFT. You don’t need to do anything further unless your personal circumstances change.
To Confirm Your 2024–25 COLC Payment:
- Check your bank statements between August and December 2024
- Look for the transaction description: “Concessions COLC” and the amount $255.60
When Will the 2025–26 COLC Payments Be Made?
- If you were eligible and received the payment last year under your name, no need to reapply.
- You will be automatically assessed as of 1 July 2025.
- Payments will again be made between August and December 2025, depending on processing time.
Make sure your banking details are correct to avoid delays. Update them online or contact ConcessionsSA directly.
Need Help or More Info? Contact ConcessionsSA
- Phone: 1800 307 758 (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Mon to Fri)
- Email: concessions@sa.gov.au
- Website: sa.gov.au/concessions
Final Reminder: Don’t Miss the Deadline
If you’re eligible for the Centrelink COLC payment, make sure your details are up to date and that you’ve applied before 31 December 2025 to receive the payment for the current financial year.
This small but crucial annual payment can help you manage life’s essential costs—don’t miss out.