If you’re looking for ways to save money on healthcare, utilities, and public transport in Australia, a Centrelink Concession Card can be a valuable resource. These cards provide financial relief to pensioners, low-income individuals, and retirees by offering significant discounts on essential services.
This guide explains the types of Centrelink Concession Cards available in 2025, their benefits, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
Table of Contents
What Is a Centrelink Concession Card?
A Centrelink Concession Card is a government-issued card that helps eligible Australians reduce their cost of living by providing discounts on medical services, pharmaceuticals, public transport, and utility bills.
In 2025, the three main Centrelink Concession Cards are:
- Pensioner Concession Card (PCC) – For pension recipients and long-term Centrelink beneficiaries
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) – For self-funded retirees meeting income requirements
- Low Income Health Care Card (LIHCC) – For individuals and families with low earnings
Types of Centrelink Concession Cards in 2025
Each concession card has different eligibility requirements and benefits. Below is a detailed breakdown:
1. Pensioner Concession Card (PCC)
Benefits of the Pensioner Concession Card
- Cheaper prescription medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
- Bulk-billed doctor visits (if accepted by the doctor)
- Discounts on electricity, gas, and water bills (varies by state)
- Lower public transport fares across Australia
- Discounts on vehicle registration and driver’s license fees
- Access to free or low-cost hearing aids and hearing tests
Who Is Eligible for the PCC?
You may qualify for a Pensioner Concession Card if you receive one of these payments:
- Age Pension
- Carer Payment
- Disability Support Pension (DSP)
- JobSeeker Payment (if single and caring for dependents)
- Parenting Payment (Single)
Additionally, individuals aged 60+ who have been receiving Centrelink payments for at least nine months may also qualify.
How to Apply for a Pensioner Concession Card
✅ No application is needed! Centrelink automatically issues this card to eligible recipients.
2. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC)
Benefits of the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Discounted PBS medications
- Lower energy bills and council rates (in some states)
- Reduced public transport fares (varies by state)
- Possible discounts on healthcare services
Who Is Eligible for the CSHC?
To qualify, you must:
- Have reached Age Pension age but not be receiving Age Pension
- Meet the CSHC income test:
- Single: Income below $95,400 per year
- Couple (combined): Income below $152,640 per year
How to Apply for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
✅ Apply online through your MyGov account linked to Centrelink
✅ OR submit a paper application (Form SA296) at a Centrelink office
3. Low Income Health Care Card (LIHCC)
Benefits of the Low Income Health Care Card
- Access to PBS medicines at a lower cost
- Discounts on energy and water bills (depending on your state)
- Lower public transport fares
- Potential rebates on medical costs
Who Is Eligible for the LIHCC?
To qualify, your weekly income must be below these limits:
- Single: Below $769 per week
- Couples (combined): Below $1,315 per week
How to Apply for a Low Income Health Care Card
✅ Apply online through your MyGov account linked to Centrelink
✅ OR submit a paper application (Form SS050) at a Centrelink office
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Additional Concessions by State and Territory
Each state and territory provides extra discounts for concession cardholders, including:
| State/Territory | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | Energy rebates, public transport discounts, free vehicle registration |
| Victoria (VIC) | Utility relief grants, lower vehicle registration fees, Myki public transport discounts |
| Queensland (QLD) | Electricity and gas rebates, subsidized medical transport |
| South Australia (SA) | Concessions on water and electricity, free public transport for seniors |
| Western Australia (WA) | Discounts on driver’s licenses, energy bill relief |
| Tasmania (TAS) | Public transport concessions, utility bill discounts |
| Northern Territory (NT) | Vehicle registration and driver’s license discounts |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | Discounts on public transport and utilities |
💡 Tip: Visit your state government’s website for details on available discounts.
How to Renew a Centrelink Concession Card in 2025
Different concession cards have different renewal processes:
✅ Pensioner Concession Card (PCC)
- Automatic renewal as long as you remain eligible
- If your situation changes, Centrelink may cancel your card
✅ Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC)
- Must be renewed annually
- Centrelink reviews your income each year to confirm eligibility
✅ Low Income Health Care Card (LIHCC)
- Has an expiry date and must be reapplied for when it expires
- You must provide updated financial information when renewing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I hold multiple Centrelink Concession Cards at the same time?
No, you can only have one Centrelink-issued concession card. However, you may be able to hold state-based concession cards in addition to your Centrelink card.
2. What happens if my income changes after I receive a concession card?
Centrelink regularly reviews eligibility. If your income increases, your card may be revoked.
3. Are the discounts the same across all Australian states?
No, each state and territory offers different benefits. Always check your state government website for details.
4. How long does it take to get a Centrelink Concession Card?
- PCC: Issued immediately upon eligibility confirmation
- CSHC & LIHCC: Processing time is usually a few weeks
5. Can self-funded retirees get a concession card?
Yes! If you don’t receive the Age Pension but meet the income test, you can apply for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC).
Final Thoughts: Maximizing Your Centrelink Concession Card Benefits
A Centrelink Concession Card can help reduce your daily living costs by providing discounts on medicines, healthcare, public transport, and utility bills.
🔹 Key Takeaways:
✔ Pensioner Concession Card (PCC) – For Age Pension and Centrelink payment recipients (issued automatically)
✔ Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) – For self-funded retirees (must apply via MyGov)
✔ Low Income Health Care Card (LIHCC) – For low-income individuals (must apply and renew periodically)
By understanding your eligibility and benefits, you can maximize your savings in 2025. If you qualify, apply today through MyGov and start saving on everyday expenses!