$890 Centrelink Relief Is Coming: In March 2025, many Australians are buzzing about the much-discussed $890 Centrelink relief payment. While some reports have turned out to be scams, there are also real updates and increases to key Centrelink benefits that can significantly support eligible individuals and families across the country. As cost-of-living pressures continue to rise, it’s no surprise that so many people are keen to understand what support is available.
This article offers a comprehensive, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand guide on what you need to know, who actually qualifies for Centrelink increases, and how to stay safe from misinformation or scams. Whether you’re a pensioner, a job seeker, a student, a young family, or even transitioning between work, this is the one-stop resource to help you understand your Centrelink entitlements, how to maximise your benefits, and ensure you’re accessing what you’re eligible for.
$890 Centrelink Relief Is Coming
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Relief Rumour | $890 once-off Centrelink payment (rumored, not confirmed) |
| Actual Increase | Biannual indexation increases as of 20 March 2025 |
| Age Pension | Increased by $4.60 (single) and $3.50 (each in couple) per fortnight |
| JobSeeker | Increased by $3.10 per fortnight for singles aged 22+ |
| Parenting Payment (Single) | Increased by $4.00 per fortnight |
| Family Tax Benefit | Up to $7.90 (Part A) and $5.40 (Part B) increases |
| Scam Alert | No confirmed $890 bonus – fake websites reported |
| Source | Services Australia |
While the viral news of a $890 Centrelink relief payment sparked interest and confusion among many Australians, it’s essential to understand the truth. There is no such payment, and the rumors have been linked to online scams designed to steal personal information. However, real payment increases have taken place as of 20 March 2025, as part of the government’s indexation process.
These small yet important increases are designed to ensure Australians receiving Centrelink benefits can better manage their finances in a changing economic environment. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself, make the most of your entitlements, and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
Understanding the $890 Centrelink Relief Rumour
What started the buzz?
The phrase “$890 Centrelink relief” started circulating on social media platforms, online forums, and even through forwarded text messages in early 2025. Several posts and ads claimed that the Australian Government was providing a one-time cash payment to help citizens manage cost-of-living challenges. These claims came with links to seemingly legitimate websites or prompts to provide personal details.
However, Services Australia, along with trusted news sources like News.com.au and ABC News, have confirmed that these claims are entirely false. There is no official confirmation or plan for a $890 Centrelink bonus. The websites promoting these offers were part of sophisticated phishing scams aimed at stealing personal and financial information.
Important: If you’re ever in doubt about a Centrelink announcement, head directly to servicesaustralia.gov.au.
How to spot a scam
Scam websites and messages are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it hard to distinguish from the real thing. But you can protect yourself by staying alert to these common red flags:
- Websites that don’t end in “.gov.au” or that slightly misspell official URLs
- Messages or ads asking for bank account details, MyGov login credentials, or document uploads
- Promises of large lump sums like “$890 Centrelink Bonus” without eligibility checks
- Emotional or urgent language like “Claim now before it ends!”
Being cautious and informed is your best defence. If you’re unsure, contact Centrelink through your myGov account or by phone.
Real Centrelink Payment Increases: What You Actually Get
Though the $890 figure is fabricated, there are very real and helpful payment increases that have been introduced in March 2025. These adjustments are part of the government’s standard biannual indexation process, which occurs every March and September.
What is indexation?
Indexation is a system where Centrelink payments are automatically adjusted to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and wage growth. This helps to ensure that the value of your payments keeps pace with inflation, so you’re not left behind as everyday costs rise.
Breakdown of key payment increases (as of 20 March 2025)
1. Age Pension
- Single pensioners: Receive an increase of $4.60, bringing their fortnightly payment to $1,149.00
- Couples: Each member receives an increase of $3.50, totaling $866.10 per person
2. JobSeeker Payment
- Single recipients aged 22+ without children: Now receive $789.90 per fortnight, including the energy supplement, reflecting a $3.10 increase
3. Parenting Payment (Single)
- Recipients will now receive $1,030.30 per fortnight, an increase of $4.00
4. Family Tax Benefit
- Part A: Up to $7.90 increase per child, depending on age and circumstances
- Part B: Up to $5.40 increase per eligible family
These increases might seem small at first glance, but over the course of a year, they add up. For example, a single age pensioner will receive an additional $119.60 per year, which can help cover essentials like utilities, groceries, or transport.
How to Check If You Qualify For $890 Centrelink Relief
Step 1: Identify your payment type
You must already be receiving one of the following benefits:
- Age Pension
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment (single or partnered)
- Disability Support Pension
- Youth Allowance or Austudy
- Family Tax Benefit Part A or B
Step 2: Confirm your eligibility criteria
Each payment type has specific eligibility rules. Some common factors include:
- Residency: Must be an Australian resident and physically present in the country
- Income and assets tests: These apply to most Centrelink payments
- Activity requirements: For payments like JobSeeker, you need to be actively looking for work
You can find tailored eligibility information using the Payment and Service Finder.
Step 3: Keep your details current
To avoid delays or overpayments, make sure your Centrelink profile is up to date:
- Log into your myGov account
- Update address, contact details, income, and assets
- Review your payment summary for any discrepancies
Practical Advice: How to Stay Informed and Safe
Rely on verified sources only
Avoid relying on social media for important updates. Instead, stick with official resources:
- Services Australia website
- MyGov
- Government newsletters and verified social media pages
Don’t fall for phishing traps
Fraudsters often create websites or emails that mimic real ones. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Don’t click on suspicious links
- Use two-factor authentication for your myGov account
- Never send personal documents or passwords via email or SMS
Report anything suspicious
Act fast if you think you’ve seen or fallen victim to a scam:
- Contact Scamwatch
- Call Services Australia’s Fraud Tip-off Line at 1800 611 611
- Change your myGov password immediately if you suspect unauthorized access
Centrelink’s $1100 Payment: Are You Eligible? Check the New Cost of Living Criteria!
$3,300 Centrelink Age Pension in March 2025 – Who Qualifies & When Will You Get Paid?
$153.50 Fortnightly Centrelink Payment – Are You Eligible for the Youth Disability Supplement?
FAQs About $890 Centrelink Relief Is Coming
Is the $890 Centrelink bonus real?
No, it’s a hoax. The Australian Government has not confirmed or issued a one-off $890 Centrelink relief payment. Be cautious of any messages making this claim.
What payments actually increased in March 2025?
Centrelink payments including Age Pension, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, and Family Tax Benefit have all seen modest increases as part of indexation.
Do I need to apply for the updated amounts?
No application is necessary. If you’re already receiving eligible payments, the increased amount will be applied automatically.
How can I check how much I now receive?
Simply log in to your myGov account, use the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app, or call Centrelink for a payment summary.
What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed?
Stop all contact with the scammer, report the incident to Scamwatch, and call Services Australia immediately. Also, consider changing your myGov login details and monitor your bank accounts.
