The Liberal Government has reduced red tape for people accessing concessions, cutting the average processing time for each application from up to three months to less than one week.
ConcessionsSA provides much needed financial relief to an estimated 184,000 South Australians on low or fixed incomes through rebates toward utilities, the Emergency Services Levy, the cost of living, medical heating and cooling and more.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said the efficiencies were an important step in making much-needed funds available to South Australians in need.
“The Liberal Government has listened to feedback and conducted a review to identify how we could improve, and this has resulted in some practical changes to make the experience better for our customers,” said Minister Lensink.
“I’m thrilled that the Liberal Government has reduced red tape for South Australians in need, cutting the average concessions processing time from up to three months to less than one week.
“Other improvements include streamlining our forms through halving the paperwork required of our customers.
“Customers are also no longer required to provide such extensive evidence with their hard copy form, such as certain validating documents. Instead we’ve harnessed new technologies and can now verify many elements behind-the-scenes without bothering the customer.
“This whole exercise has been to ensure that the South Australians who really need our help are able to do so simply and quickly.”
The full rollout of ConcessionsSA efficiencies is expected to be complete by the end of the year, which includes upgrades to the online application process.
“One of our key concessions is the annual Cost of Living Concession, which is up to $210.70 that can be put toward expenses such as medical bills or groceries,” said Minister Lensink.
“The great news is that it’s not too late to apply for this year. In fact, we estimate that up to 10,000 South Australians on low or fixed incomes could be missing out on this concession, so now is a good time to check if you are eligible.”
Eligible households include those who hold a concession card such as a Low Income Health Care Card, receive an eligible Centrelink payment such as Newstart Allowance, or meet low income provisions.
“Applications for the 2019-20 Cost of Living Concession must be submitted by 31 October to receive it for this year, so I urge people to act now,” said Minister Lensink.
“The Liberal Government knows that every little bit helps and that is why we are committed to easing the cost of living pressures for South Australians.”
Applications can be lodged online and newly eligible homeowner applicants will receive their payment by the end of the year.
Homeowners who received the concession last year should have already received this year’s payment into their bank account in August, if their circumstances remain unchanged. Payments for eligible tenants for the 2019-20 year will be made in February 2020.
For more information visit sa.gov.au/concessions or call the ConcessionsSA Hotline between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, on 1800 307 758.
