South Australian households eligible for the Cost of Living Concession (COLC) are set to receive an increased payment from January 1, 2027, following an announcement by the State Government on October 12, 2026. The move aims to provide additional financial relief for energy bills and other essential costs for low-income residents across the state.

Under the revised scheme, eligible homeowners will see their annual COLC payment rise from AUD $246.70 to AUD $270.00, representing an increase of AUD $23.30. Similarly, eligible tenants will receive an additional AUD $11.65, with their concession increasing from AUD $123.35 to AUD $135.00 annually. The adjustment is a direct response to rising cost of living pressures, particularly impacting vulnerable households.

“The South Australian Government is committed to easing the burden of rising costs for our most vulnerable residents. This increase in the Cost of Living Concession, effective from January 1, 2027, will provide tangible support directly into the pockets of those who need it most, helping with essential expenses like energy bills.” – South Australian Premier, October 12, 2026.

This targeted increase is expected to benefit tens of thousands of South Australian households, providing a crucial buffer against the broader economic landscape. The COLC is an annual payment designed to assist with various household expenses, including council rates, energy bills, water bills, and medical costs.

Eligibility Criteria and Application

Eligibility for the Cost of Living Concession is primarily based on holding certain concession cards or meeting specific income thresholds. To qualify for the increased payment from January 1, 2027, applicants must, as of July 1, 2026, be one of the following:

  • A homeowner holding an eligible concession card, such as a Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card (TPI, EDA, War Widow).
  • A tenant with an eligible concession card, provided they are the primary leaseholder.
  • Receiving an eligible Centrelink payment and meeting specific income requirements.

Applications for the 2026-27 financial year, which will include the increased concession from January 2027, are currently open. Existing recipients who remain eligible will generally receive their increased payment automatically. New applicants or those whose circumstances have changed are encouraged to apply through the SA.GOV.AU website or by contacting the Concessions SA Hotline on 1800 307 758. The application process requires proof of residency, identity, and concession eligibility.

Broader Energy Relief Context in South Australia

While this COLC increase directly addresses general living costs, its impact on energy bills is significant for eligible recipients. South Australia has historically faced some of the nation’s highest electricity prices, making targeted relief measures critical. The state government’s decision to boost this concession complements other existing energy support programs.

For broader energy bill support, South Australians can also explore other state and federal initiatives. These often include specific energy rebates for low-income households or those with medical conditions requiring consistent energy use. Understanding the full spectrum of available assistance is crucial for maximising savings. Readers can find a comprehensive guide to various support options in our article: Navigating Australia’s Energy Bill Relief and Support in 2026: A Comprehensive Guide.

The increase in the COLC comes as the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) continues its consultation process for the Default Market Offer (DMO) for 2027-28, which will set the maximum electricity prices for standing offer customers in South Australia, New South Wales, and South-East Queensland. Any changes to the DMO will have a widespread impact on energy costs, making targeted concessions even more vital for vulnerable groups.

Maximising Your Energy Savings Beyond Concessions

While concessions provide direct financial aid, South Australian households can also take proactive steps to reduce their energy consumption and bills. This includes exploring energy-efficient appliances, optimising home insulation, and understanding their electricity plan. For homeowners, investing in solar power or battery storage can significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity, offering long-term savings. Information on various national rebates and incentives for such investments can be found in our guide: Your 2026 Guide: Claim Up To $15,000 in Energy Rebates Across Australia.

Choosing the right electricity retailer and plan can also lead to substantial savings. Many retailers offer competitive market offers that are often significantly cheaper than the DMO. Comparing plans based on usage patterns, feed-in tariffs for solar households, and any conditional discounts is recommended. The South Australian government also offers various resources to help residents compare energy offers.

The updated Cost of Living Concession in South Australia underscores the ongoing efforts to support households facing financial strain. While the AUD $23.30 and AUD $11.65 increases may seem modest on an annual basis, for low-income individuals and families, every dollar of assistance is critical in managing essential household expenses, including the persistent challenge of energy costs.