In recent months, rumors have circulated about a supposed $850 bonus payment from Centrelink to Australian citizens in December 2024.
However, Services Australia has officially debunked these claims, warning the public about a clickbait scam aimed at stealing personal information. Here’s what you need to know about the false claims, the dangers of phishing scams, and how to protect yourself.
False Claims of the $850 Bonus
The rumors suggested that Centrelink would provide a one-time $850 bonus payment to help Australians cope with cost-of-living pressures, particularly targeting recipients of the Age Pension, Carer Benefit, Youth Allowance, and other Centrelink programs.
However, Services Australia has confirmed that:
- No such $850 bonus payment has been approved.
- The claims are false and part of a phishing scam designed to steal personal information.
- Payments and benefits will only be communicated through official channels, such as the Services Australia website or MyGov.
How the Scam Works
Scammers are using clickbait tactics to lure individuals into providing sensitive information by:
- Promising a one-off payment through fake websites or social media advertisements.
- Redirecting victims to a “Check My Eligibility” tab, where they are asked to enter personal details such as income, bank information, or MyGov credentials.
- Using fraudulent websites that mimic official government platforms but do not end with “.gov.au”.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Offers of a bonus payment that are not announced on official government websites.
- Websites or links that do not end in “.gov.au”.
- Requests for personal details to “check eligibility” outside of MyGov or Services Australia portals.
Official Communication from Services Australia
Services Australia has reiterated that:
- Official information will always be shared through legitimate channels such as Services Australia’s official website or MyGov.
- No special $850 bonus payment is being provided to beneficiaries.
- Citizens should report suspicious messages, emails, or ads to Scamwatch or Services Australia directly.
Existing Centrelink Payments and Benefits
While the $850 bonus is a hoax, eligible beneficiaries can still access regular payments under Centrelink programs, including:
- Age Pension
- Youth Allowance
- JobSeeker Payment
- Carer Payment
- Family Tax Benefit
For accurate and up-to-date information, beneficiaries should log in to their MyGov accounts or visit the Services Australia website.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Scams
- Verify the Source:
- Always check that the website ends with “.gov.au” to confirm its authenticity.
- Do Not Share Personal Information:
- Avoid entering sensitive details on unverified websites or forms.
- Stay Updated Through Official Channels:
- Visit the Services Australia website or MyGov for all legitimate updates regarding payments and benefits.
- Report Scams:
- If you encounter suspicious links or messages, report them to Scamwatch or Services Australia.
The $850 bonus payment rumor is a scam designed to exploit individuals’ trust in Centrelink. To protect yourself, always rely on information from official sources, such as the Services Australia website or MyGov, and be cautious of unsolicited messages or ads promising financial benefits. If in doubt, contact Services Australia directly to verify the legitimacy of any claim.
