Centrelink $890 Bonus in April: The Centrelink $890 bonus in April has been making waves across social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp groups, sparking confusion and even excitement among Australians relying on welfare support. The message sounds promising—especially at a time when rising costs of groceries, rent, and electricity bills are squeezing households. But is this generous-sounding bonus real?
Let’s uncover the truth behind the viral claim and equip you with everything you need to stay safe, informed, and financially aware.
Unfortunately, the widespread message about a one-off $890 Centrelink bonus payment in April 2025 is a hoax. According to official statements from Services Australia, there is no $890 bonus being issued by Centrelink at any point this year. This so-called bonus is nothing more than a scam tactic—one of many that have emerged during economic hardship periods.
Centrelink $890 Bonus in April
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| What is being claimed? | Viral message says Centrelink is offering an $890 bonus in April. |
| Is it true? | No. Services Australia has confirmed this is a scam. |
| Official confirmation? | Services Australia denies any such one-off $890 bonus. |
| Risk involved | Scam aims to steal personal details and banking info. |
| Official website for updates | servicesaustralia.gov.au |
The Centrelink $890 bonus payment is not real—it’s a well-crafted scam targeting Australians. As tempting as it sounds, there is no official payment of this amount from Centrelink or Services Australia. If you see a message like this, delete it, report it, and protect yourself.
Keep checking official government websites, enable security features like MFA, and spread the word to help others stay scam-smart.
What Is the Centrelink $890 Bonus Claim About?
In recent weeks, Australians have received messages through text, social media, and even email that claim Centrelink is issuing a special $890 payment in April 2025. The scam usually includes a link to a website that mimics the official Centrelink portal, complete with fake logos and convincing government-style formatting.
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These messages often urge the recipient to act quickly—either to “register” for the bonus or to “verify” their account to receive the money. The goal is to trick people into handing over sensitive personal information, including:
- MyGov login credentials
- Centrelink Reference Number (CRN)
- Banking details
- Tax File Number (TFN)
But here’s the key takeaway: There is no such payment, and Centrelink has not issued any new bonus of $890.
How the Scam Operates
This isn’t a one-time thing. Scams like this have become more frequent and sophisticated, especially targeting older Australians, young jobseekers, and lower-income individuals who are more likely to be on Centrelink payments.
Common tactics include:
- Spoofing websites that look nearly identical to government domains.
- Urgent call-to-action messages prompting recipients to act before a “deadline.”
- Email and SMS phishing with fake Centrelink headers and branding.
- Social media impersonation of government accounts.
Once you click the link and enter your details, scammers can:
- Withdraw funds from your linked bank account.
- Take over your MyGov account, locking you out.
- Apply for loans or credit cards in your name.
- Sell your data on the dark web.
What to Do If You Received or Shared the Message
Step 1: Do Not Click or Share
If you see this message, delete it immediately. Do not forward it to friends or family, even as a warning—it only helps the scam spread further.
Step 2: Report the Scam Immediately
File a report at Scamwatch, which is operated by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Step 3: Change Your MyGov and Banking Passwords
If you’ve entered your login or account details, change your passwords right away. Also, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) if you haven’t already.
Step 4: Call Services Australia
Reach out to the Scams and Identity Theft Helpdesk on 1800 941 126. They can help secure your MyGov account and prevent further damage.
Are There Any Real Centrelink Bonus Payments in 2025?
Yes, there are genuine support payments—but none of them are called the “$890 bonus.”
Verified payments include:
- Energy Supplement: A small payment for eligible Centrelink customers.
- Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA): Sometimes included in the federal budget for pensioners and low-income earners.
- Family Tax Benefit Supplements: Issued annually based on income reporting.
- Advance Payments: Some eligible recipients can apply for early access to their benefits.
How to Protect Yourself from Scams Like This
Use only official .gov.au websites
If a link does not end in “.gov.au,” it’s almost certainly fake.
Set up MyGov MFA
Multi-factor authentication adds a layer of protection to your online account.
Stay informed
Subscribe to:
- Services Australia Newsroom
- Scamwatch Alerts
- Your bank’s fraud alert system
Use a password manager
Using strong, unique passwords for different sites makes it harder for hackers to gain access.
Talk to loved ones
Scammers often target older adults and those who may not be digitally savvy. Share this information with friends, family, or neighbours who rely on Centrelink.
Real Stories: Victims Share Their Experiences
Emily (34, Melbourne): A single mum who clicked a scam link thinking she was about to receive an $890 relief. Hours later, her MyGov account was hijacked. It took weeks to restore her access.
David (63, Brisbane): A pensioner who entered his CRN and bank details into a fake website. Days later, he was contacted by his bank about suspicious withdrawals.
Priya (29, Sydney): Recently laid off, she fell for a convincing Facebook ad that led to a fake Centrelink site. The scammers used her info to apply for loans, damaging her credit score.
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FAQs About Centrelink $890 Bonus in April
Is the Centrelink $890 bonus real?
No, it’s completely false. Services Australia has clearly labeled this as a scam.
What if I entered my information?
Immediately change your MyGov and banking passwords. Contact Services Australia at 1800 941 126.
Will Centrelink offer new bonuses in 2025?
There might be new assistance programs announced during the federal budget, but none include a fixed $890 amount.
How do I verify a Centrelink message?
Always check the official site: servicesaustralia.gov.au
Where do I report suspicious activity?
Go to Scamwatch to report fake messages or fraudulent websites.
