Lately, many Australians have been receiving messages or seeing social media posts about a supposed “$890 bonus payment from Centrelink.” These messages claim that Centrelink is offering a one-time payment to help with the rising cost of living. However, this offer is entirely fake. Scammers are using these tactics to steal personal information from unsuspecting victims.
Let’s break down how this scam works, the latest fraud trends in Australia, and how to protect yourself from falling victim to these schemes.
Scam
The Centrelink $890 bonus payment scam is being spread through social media ads, emails, and text messages. These messages often look official, using logos and designs that mimic real government websites. They direct users to fake sites that closely resemble myGov or Services Australia, tricking them into entering their personal details.
Once users provide login information, scammers gain access to their accounts, potentially stealing funds or misusing personal data. Services Australia has confirmed that no such $890 payment exists, and any messages promoting it are fraudulent.
Trends
This scam is part of a larger pattern of online fraud in Australia. Scammers frequently use fake government payments to trick people, especially those who rely on benefits. According to Scamwatch, online scams have increased by 13% in the past year, with over $100 million lost to fraud in 2025 alone. Fake messages impersonating government agencies, banks, and phone companies are among the most common scams.
Warning
Spotting a scam can be challenging, but there are clear warning signs to look out for:
- Suspicious Links or Websites
Scammers create websites that look similar to government sites but have slightly altered URLs, such as “servicesaustralia-bonus.com” instead of “servicesaustralia.gov.au.” Always check for official “.gov.au” domains. - Urgent or Fear-Based Messages
Scammers create a sense of urgency by using phrases like “Act Now” or “Limited Time Offer” to pressure victims into responding quickly. - Requests for Personal Details
Services Australia will never ask for personal information via email, text, or social media. Any message requesting login details, bank information, or other sensitive data is likely a scam. - Unusual Contact Methods
Official Centrelink communications are sent through myGov. Messages from WhatsApp, Facebook, or random text numbers should be treated with caution.
Verification
If you’re unsure whether a Centrelink payment offer is real, follow these steps to verify its authenticity:
1. Visit the Official Website
Check the Services Australia website (servicesaustralia.gov.au) or log into myGov (my.gov.au) to see if the payment is listed. If it’s not mentioned on these sites, it’s likely a scam.
2. Check Your myGov Inbox
Any real payment notifications from Centrelink will appear in your myGov inbox. If you don’t see any messages there, the offer is fake.
3. Contact Centrelink Directly
If you’re still unsure, call Centrelink using the number listed on their official website. Avoid using phone numbers provided in suspicious messages, as scammers can use fake helplines.
Legitimate
While the $890 payment is a scam, Centrelink provides real benefits for eligible Australians. Some of the key payments include:
| Benefit | Purpose |
|---|---|
| JobSeeker Payment | Financial support for unemployed Australians |
| Youth Allowance | Support for students and young job seekers |
| Age Pension | Assistance for older Australians |
| Disability Support Pension | Financial aid for individuals with disabilities |
To look into real benefits, visit the Services Australia website and check eligibility criteria.
Victim
If you’ve already shared your information with scammers, act quickly to minimize damage:
- Secure Your myGov Account – Change your password immediately and enable two-factor authentication.
- Report the Scam – Notify Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) and Services Australia.
- Monitor Your Bank Accounts – If you shared financial details, check for unauthorized transactions and inform your bank.
Safety
With scams becoming more sophisticated, staying informed is the best defense. Here are some tips to protect yourself online:
- Educate Family Members – Elderly individuals are often targeted. Help them recognize scam tactics.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication – Adds extra security to your myGov and banking accounts.
- Use Strong Passwords – Avoid simple passwords like birthdays or names.
- Avoid Clicking on Unverified Links – Instead, type the official website address directly into your browser.
The Centrelink $890 bonus payment scam is a clear reminder that if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify payment claims through official channels, never share personal information with unknown sources, and report suspicious messages to authorities. Staying vigilant can prevent financial loss and keep your data safe.
FAQs
Is the Centrelink $890 payment real?
No, it is a scam. Services Australia has confirmed no such payment exists.
How do scammers steal information?
They use fake websites to collect login details, allowing them to access accounts.
How can I report a scam?
Report it to Scamwatch and Services Australia through official channels.
What should I do if I clicked a scam link?
Change your myGov password immediately and enable two-factor authentication.
Where can I find real Centrelink benefits?
Visit servicesaustralia.gov.au for legitimate government payments and programs.
