Up to 11,000 South Australians will receive a once-off $500 cash boost to help ease cost of living pressures as part of the Marshall Liberal Government's $1 billion stimulus package in response to COVID-19.
A total of $7.8 million will be paid to South Australians receiving the Centrelink Jobseeker Payment to assist them with everyday expenses – and people are being urged to see if they are eligible.
For eligible homeowners, their 2020-21 payment of $215.10 will now become $715.10 and eligible tenants will receive $607.60. This is a one-off boost to the Cost of Living Concession payable per household.
Minister for Human Services Michelle said the one-off $500 boost formed part of the Marshall Liberal Government's strong plan to protect South Australians from the impacts of the coronavirus virus.
"We know many South Australians are hurting right now and every little bit helps," said Minister Lensink.
"This $500 one-off cash boost forms part of the Marshall Liberal Government's $1 billion stimulus package in response to COVID-19 and is targeted specifically at those South Australians who have lost their jobs or are unemployed due to the impacts of the coronavirus restrictions.
"The Cost of Living Concession is being paid directly into bank accounts to allow the funds to be put towards wherever households need it most.
"This might include putting the money toward rent for the month, or help with expenses like electricity, gas or water, or putting food on the table."
Cost of Living Concession households who do not receive Jobseeker, will receive their 2020-21 COLC payment ($215.10) in August 2020 for homeowners and March 2021 for tenants ($107.60) as usual.
Minister Lensink also urged people to visit the ConcessionsSA website or call the hotline to learn whether they might be eligible for the payment.
"More than 180,000 South Australians currently receive the annual Cost of Living Concession but we believe there are thousands potentially missing out," Minister Lensink said.
"The additional $500 payment is an extra incentive for people to inquire as to their eligibility for the concession.
"Those eligible include pensioners, low-income households and people receiving payments from Centrelink."
Applications for Cost of Living Concession can be made through the ConcessionsSA website or by calling the Concessions SA Hotline: 1800 307 758
