Rumours about Centrelink payments of $390 and $1,561 have been circulating across social media, leaving many Australians confused. While these exact figures are not part of any official announcement, there are real and confirmed increases to key Centrelink payments starting from September 20, 2025, and flowing into October. Here’s a clear guide to what’s changing, who benefits, and how to check your payment.
What’s Actually Changing in October 2025
From September 20, 2025, the Age Pension, Carer Payment, and Disability Support Pension (DSP) increased by:
- $29.70 per fortnight for singles
- $44.80 per fortnight for couples combined
These adjustments are part of regular indexation, which happens every March and September to keep payments aligned with inflation.
From October 2025 onward, the updated rates will be reflected in Age Pension, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, Youth Allowance (principal carer), and Rent Assistance payments.
The Truth About $390 and $1,561 Payments
Despite online claims, there are no one-off lump sum payments of $390 or $1,561 confirmed by Services Australia. These amounts likely come from:
- Misinterpretation of new payment rates
- Social media speculation
- The impact of regular indexation on fortnightly entitlements
The only official changes are the scheduled increases to existing payments.
Who Benefits From the October Changes
The confirmed increases apply to several groups:
- Age Pensioners – Higher fortnightly payments after indexation
- JobSeeker recipients – Updated base rates for singles, partnered people, and principal carers
- Disability Support Pensioners – Indexed rates applied automatically
- Parenting Payment recipients – Increased amounts for eligible parents
- Rent Assistance recipients – New maximums:
- Singles up to $215.40 per fortnight
- Couples up to $203.00 per fortnight (combined)
Payment Schedule: When to Expect Changes
| Payment Type | When Changes Apply | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Age Pension | From first pay after 20 Sept 2025 | Automatic increase |
| JobSeeker | October 2025 | Higher fortnightly rates |
| DSP | From first pay after 20 Sept 2025 | Automatic indexation |
| Parenting Payment | October 2025 | Increased base rates |
| Rent Assistance | October 2025 | Updated thresholds |
How to Check Your Payment
Don’t rely on rumours. To see your actual amount:
- Log in to your myGov account
- Go to Centrelink online services
- View your payment summary and next payment date
- Review any recent adjustments
Avoiding Centrelink Payment Scams
High living costs make people vulnerable to scams, and fraudsters often use fake “bonus payment” messages to trick recipients.
Red flags include:
- Exact dollar amounts not confirmed on official websites
- Requests for personal or banking details
- Emails/SMS from non-.gov.au addresses
- Messages demanding urgent action
Always cross-check updates on Services Australia’s official site.
What’s Next for 2025
At this stage, no extra one-off payments have been confirmed for late 2025. However, the regular indexation process ensures that Centrelink support keeps pace with the rising cost of living.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to apply for the October 2025 increases?
No. All eligible recipients receive the updated payments automatically.
Q: Will this affect my other Centrelink benefits?
No. These are indexation adjustments and won’t reduce other payments or supplements.
Q: Are the $390 and $1,561 payments real?
No. They are not official. Only the confirmed indexed increases apply.
Q: When will I see the changes in my bank account?
Most recipients notice the higher rate in their first payment after September 20, 2025.
Q: How can I protect myself from scams?
Only trust information from .gov.au websites and never share banking details with unsolicited callers or emails.
Conclusion
While there are no new lump sum payments of $390 or $1,561, many Australians will see higher regular Centrelink payments from October 2025. The changes are automatic, so you don’t need to apply — just check your myGov account to confirm your updated rate. Staying informed through official channels helps you avoid misinformation and ensures you receive every dollar you’re entitled to.