As you enter retirement, managing healthcare and living costs becomes a priority. If you’re a self-funded retiree in Australia, the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) can help reduce expenses by providing discounts on prescription medicines, bulk-billed doctor visits, and utility bills. The best part? There’s no assets test—only your income is assessed.
This guide will walk you through who qualifies, how to apply online, and what benefits you can expect in 2025.
Eligibility
To qualify for the CSHC in 2025, you need to meet certain age, residency, and income requirements.
Age
You must have reached the Age Pension age, currently 67 years.
Residency
You must be:
- An Australian citizen or permanent visa holder
- A New Zealand citizen on a Special Category Visa
- Living in Australia at the time of application
Income Test
Your adjusted taxable income (ATI) must be below the following limits:
| Household Type | Maximum ATI (per year) |
|---|---|
| Single | $99,025 |
| Couple (combined) | $158,440 |
| Couple (separated due to illness) | $198,050 |
| Additional allowance per dependent child | $639.60 |
What counts as income?
- Taxable income
- Foreign income
- Investment losses
- Employer-provided benefits
- Reportable super contributions
No Assets Test
Unlike the Age Pension, your assets (such as property, savings, or investments) are not assessed for CSHC eligibility.
No Government Support Payments
You cannot receive:
- Age Pension
- Service Pension (DVA)
- Other Centrelink or DVA income support payments
Application Process
Go to myGov and sign up if you don’t have an account.
Link Centrelink
- Log in to myGov
- Select “View and link services”
- Choose Centrelink and follow the prompts
If you don’t have a Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN), you’ll need to verify your identity.
Submit an Online Application
- Once Centrelink is linked, select “Make a claim”
- Choose “Get Started” under Concession Cards
- Fill in your details and submit the application
Provide Supporting Documents
You may need to upload:
- Proof of income (tax returns, superannuation statements)
- Residency documents (passport, visa details)
- Identity verification (driver’s license, Medicare card)
Track Your Application
Monitor your application status via myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
Benefits
Enjoy discounted PBS medicines, reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
Bulk-Billed GP Visits
Some doctors bulk bill CSHC holders, meaning no upfront consultation fees.
Discounts on Utilities
Receive concessions on electricity, gas, and water bills (varies by state).
Public Transport Discounts
Lower fares on buses, trains, and ferries (state-dependent).
Free or Discounted Ambulance Services
Some states offer reduced ambulance fees or free emergency transport.
Final Thoughts
The Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) is a great financial relief option for self-funded retirees who don’t qualify for the Age Pension. With no assets test, easy online application, and substantial discounts on healthcare and utilities, it’s well worth applying if you meet the income criteria.
Apply today via Services Australia to start saving!
FAQs
Who is eligible for the CSHC in 2025?
You must be 67+, an Australian resident, and meet the income test.
Does the CSHC have an assets test?
No, only your income is assessed, not your assets.
How do I apply for the CSHC online?
Apply via myGov by linking Centrelink and submitting an application.
What benefits come with the CSHC?
Cheaper medicines, bulk-billed GP visits, and discounts on utilities.
Can I get the CSHC if I receive the Age Pension?
No, the CSHC is only for those not receiving government pensions.
