Centrelink Cost of Living Payment Released: If you’ve recently seen headlines or social media posts claiming a $1,144 Centrelink Cost of Living Payment has been released in April 2025, you’re not alone. Many Australians have rushed to log in to their MyGov accounts in the hope of finding a large lump sum. But before you celebrate, let’s get to the facts.
As of April 16, 2025, there is no official confirmation from the Australian Government or Services Australia regarding a new one-off $1,144 Centrelink Cost of Living Payment. The last such payment was delivered in mid-2022 and concluded in June 2023, aimed at easing inflation-related pressures. Any current increases in payments are due to routine indexation adjustments, not special bonuses.
Centrelink Cost of Living Payment Released
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Claim | $1,144 Centrelink Cost of Living Payment in April 2025 |
| Official Confirmation | Not confirmed by Services Australia |
| Last Cost of Living Payment | Concluded on June 30, 2023 |
| Current Payment Increases | Indexation changes from March 20, 2025 |
| Age Pension Rate (Single) | Increased by $4.60, now $1,149.00/fortnight |
| How to Check Payments | myGov login → Centrelink section |
| Official Help Line | Call 132 300 for payment support |
| Website for Verification | Services Australia – Cost of Living |
While the idea of a $1,144 Centrelink Cost of Living Payment sounds appealing, it’s simply not true as of April 2025. There has been no official announcement or deposit of such an amount. What’s real are routine indexation increases, which may help ease some financial pressure. Always verify payment claims using myGov or Services Australia, and stay alert to online scams.
If you need financial support, there are still legitimate programs and payments available tailored to your personal situation. Being informed, staying cautious, and using official government tools are your best defense against misinformation.
What Is the $1,144 Centrelink Payment Claim?
The rumor circulating online suggests that eligible Australians are receiving a one-time Centrelink payment of $1,144 to help with ongoing cost-of-living pressures. These posts often encourage users to check their myGov account immediately to claim the money.
However, upon investigating the source, it becomes evident that this claim lacks any backing from official government portals such as Services Australia or Australia.gov.au.
Where Did This Rumor Come From?
This appears to be another case of viral misinformation, often originating from social media or third-party blogs without credible citations. In some cases, misleading headlines are used to drive traffic to unofficial websites.
Some sites refer to genuine Centrelink support measures from 2022, but misrepresent them as new 2025 initiatives. It’s important to verify such claims using government resources only.
What Cost of Living Support Is Actually Available in April 2025?
While there is no $1,144 one-time payment, the government has continued to adjust welfare support to account for inflation and rising living costs.
March 2025 Indexation Adjustments
From March 20, 2025, Services Australia applied indexation increases to key Centrelink payments. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Age Pension (Single): Increased by $4.60, now $1,149 per fortnight
- Disability Support Pension (Single): Also increased to match age pension rates
- Carer Payment: Adjusted similarly for eligible carers
- Youth Allowance and JobSeeker: Smaller increases based on age and dependency status
These increases are automatic and based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Male Total Average Weekly Earnings (MTAWE).
Centrelink Cost of Living Payment Released: How to Verify Centrelink Payments Using MyGov
If you’re unsure whether you’ve received a payment—or just want to confirm your upcoming benefits—follow these steps:
Step-by-step: Checking Centrelink Payments on myGov
- Go to my.gov.au
- Log in using your credentials
- Click on the Centrelink link in your services
- Go to Payments and Claims
- Click View Payment History or Payment Summary
- Look for any entries showing $1,144 or similar deposits
If you don’t see this payment listed, you likely haven’t received it—and that’s because it hasn’t been issued by the government.
Avoiding Scams and Misinformation
Unfortunately, false payment rumors are sometimes used as bait for scams or phishing attempts. Here are signs to watch out for:
- Emails or texts claiming you’ve received $1,144 and asking you to “verify” your account
- Links that don’t begin with “servicesaustralia.gov.au” or “my.gov.au”
- Unofficial apps or websites asking for bank account details or MyGov login credentials
What Should You Do If You’re Struggling Financially?
If you were hoping for a lump sum payment, there are still ways to get financial assistance:
Ongoing Centrelink Payments
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for:
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Age Pension
- Carer Payment or Allowance
- Parenting Payment
- Rent Assistance
- Energy Supplement
State and Territory-Based Cost of Living Programs
Many states offer local rebates or utility subsidies:
- NSW Family Energy Rebate
- Victoria Utility Relief Grant
- Queensland Electricity Rebate
You can find these programs on your state government website or visit the Energy.gov.au Rebates Page.
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FAQs on Centrelink Cost of Living Payment Released
Is the $1,144 Centrelink payment real in April 2025?
No. There is no confirmed one-off $1,144 Centrelink Cost of Living Payment in April 2025. Official sources have not announced or distributed such a payment.
Why are people talking about it then?
It’s likely a mix of misinformation, outdated posts from 2022-23, and possibly clickbait content being circulated again.
How can I confirm my Centrelink payments?
Log into myGov → Click on Centrelink → Payments and Claims → View your payment history.
What cost of living help is available right now?
You may benefit from indexed Centrelink payments, energy subsidies, or rent assistance. Visit servicesaustralia.gov.au for full eligibility.
What should I do if I get a suspicious message about a Centrelink payment?
Do not click on links. Report scams to Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) and verify any messages via your myGov inbox or by calling Services Australia at 132 300.
