If you’ve been scrolling through Facebook, TikTok, or WhatsApp lately, chances are you’ve seen posts about Centrelink handing out $250 and $750 payments in 2025. For pensioners, carers, and low-income families already struggling with bills, it sounds like much-needed relief. But here’s the truth: those payments are not happening this year.
The only confirmed extra support in 2025 is the $700 Cost-of-Living Payment, due in September–October, plus the regular indexation increases applied to pensions and benefits on 20 September 2025.
Where Did the $250 and $750 Figures Come From?
The $250 and $750 payments were one-off Economic Support Payments rolled out during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021). They were targeted at:
- Age Pensioners
- Disability Support Pensioners (DSP)
- Carer Payment recipients
- Eligible concession card holders
These payments ended years ago and are not part of Services Australia’s 2025 schedule. Unfortunately, misleading posts continue to circulate online, creating confusion.
What’s Actually Happening in 2025
Services Australia has confirmed the following for 2025:
| Payment Type | Amount | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Cost-of-Living Payment | $700 one-off | Sept–Oct 2025 |
| Age Pension, DSP, Carer Payment | Up to $29.70 extra per fortnight | From 20 Sept 2025 |
| JobSeeker & Parenting Payment | Smaller indexed increases | From 20 Sept 2025 |
All of these are automatic payments. You do not need to apply, and if you’re eligible, the money will be deposited directly into your bank account.
Who Qualifies for the $700 Cost-of-Living Payment?
Eligibility is linked to existing Centrelink benefits. You may qualify if you receive:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension (DSP)
- Carer Payment
- Parenting Payment
- JobSeeker (in some circumstances)
You must also meet the usual residency, income, and asset rules.
How to Avoid False Claims and Scams
To stay safe and avoid misinformation:
- Trust only updates from Services Australia or your myGov account.
- Double-check your bank and contact details in Centrelink to prevent payment delays.
- Ignore any post, text, or email claiming you can “apply” for $250 or $750 payments in 2025 — these are fake.
Fact Check
- ✅ True: $250 and $750 payments were given out during COVID-19.
- ❌ False: These payments are not being repeated in 2025.
- ✅ Confirmed: The only new extra support this year is the $700 Cost-of-Living Payment plus regular indexation.
FAQs
Are the $250 and $750 Centrelink payments real in 2025?
No, those were pandemic-era payments. They are not part of this year’s programs.
What extra support is confirmed in 2025?
A one-off $700 Cost-of-Living Payment in Sept–Oct and indexed increases from 20 September 2025.
Do I need to apply for the $700 payment?
No. Payments are automatic for eligible recipients.
When will pension increases take effect?
New indexed rates start from 20 September 2025.
How do I know if I’ll get the $700 payment?
Check your myGov account or Centrelink payment history around September.
Conclusion
If you see posts about Centrelink $250 or $750 payments in 2025, treat them as outdated or misleading. The government has moved away from pandemic-style cash boosts and is focusing on automatic pension indexation plus a $700 Cost-of-Living Payment this year. For Australians doing it tough, the best way to stay informed is to follow official updates from Services Australia — not viral social media claims.