Fact Check: The Truth About the $280 Centrelink Payment in 2025
If you’ve seen talk of a “$280 Centrelink Payment”, you’re not alone. Let’s clarify what’s really happening with Centrelink payments and whether you can expect this extra money in your account.
Is the $280 Centrelink Payment Real?
The short answer is: **no, there is no universal, one-off $280 bonus payment** being given to all Centrelink recipients in 2025.
Information about specific dollar amounts like this often spreads online and can be misleading. These figures usually arise from a misunderstanding of how the regular, twice-yearly indexation adjustments work, or they refer to old, expired government support schemes.
Be Cautious of Misinformation
Always verify information about special or bonus payments on the official Services Australia website. Do not rely on social media posts or unverified news.
Where Does the “$280” Figure Come From?
While there’s no “$280 bonus,” the figure is not entirely random. It is often a misinterpretation of the standard indexation increase that occurs every March and September. These adjustments raise the base rate of pensions to keep up with the cost of living.
The confusion around “$280” may stem from calculations related to the **combined fortnightly increase for a couple**, or a misunderstanding of specific, smaller supplements that only apply to certain recipients.
The REAL Payment Increases from 20 September 2025
The good news is that most pensions and allowances **did increase** from 20 September 2025. This was an automatic indexation adjustment. Here is a breakdown of the maximum fortnightly payment rates after the increase, including the pension supplement and energy supplement.
| Pension Type | Previous Max. Fortnightly Rate | New Max. Fortnightly Rate (from 20 Sept 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (Single) | $1,085.60 | $1,115.30 |
| Age Pension (Couple, each) | $818.50 | $840.40 |
| Age Pension (Couple, combined) | $1,637.00 | $1,680.80 |
| Disability Support Pension (DSP, Single) | $1,085.60 | $1,115.30 |
| Carer Payment (Single) | $1,085.60 | $1,115.30 |
Note: These are maximum rates. Your actual payment may be lower depending on your income and assets.
Key Takeaway:
While there isn’t a special “$280 payment,” the regular fortnightly pension rates for singles, couples, and carers did increase significantly due to indexation.
Summary: What You Need to Know
- No Universal $280 Bonus: There is no one-off $280 payment scheduled for all Centrelink recipients.
- Payments Did Increase: Regular payments like the Age Pension, DSP, and Carer Payment went up from 20 September 2025.
- Check Official Sources: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Services Australia website or check your MyGov account.
Understanding these details can help you manage your budget and avoid falling for online misinformation.