Australians using Centrelink will soon need to verify card payments with extra security steps. The Government EasyPay system is being upgraded to combat fraud, beginning 6 September. Centrelink recipients who use credit or debit cards to make payments will soon face additional authentication measures. The update is part of a broader security upgrade affecting the Government EasyPay system, used by several government departments.
The changes come as part of a nationwide shift mandated by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to improve online payment security. According to Yahoo Finance, the move will not impact how customers receive their Centrelink payments, but it will affect how they make them.
Enhanced Security Requirements for Card Transactions
Starting 6 September, card users making payments to Services Australia may be required to provide additional personal information or enter one-time verification codes. The agency has confirmed this change will primarily affect those paying via credit or debit cards for Centrelink-related charges.
“This change will strengthen security to help protect both the agency and our customers against online credit and debit card transaction fraud,” said Services Australia General Manager Hank Jongen, according to Yahoo Finance.
The security protocols are similar to those implemented by banks during transactions with new recipients. Users may receive prompts for a one-time code or additional details—particularly if the payment amount is significantly different from previous charges.
According to Services Australia, the types of accepted payment cards will remain the same. The update affects only the way customers make payments to the agency, not how they receive government disbursements. The rollout applies to the Government EasyPay system, which also processes payments for the Australian Taxation Office, the Department of the Treasury, and the Department of Defence.
Users Urged to Remain Vigilant Against Fraud Attempts
With online scams continuing to rise across Australia, government agencies are reinforcing their warning to users to remain cautious. According to Services Australia, fraud attempts are becoming more sophisticated and widespread across all age groups.
“When making payments to us, make sure you’re only dealing with our genuine websites,” the agency stated. These include servicesaustralia.gov.au and my.gov.au. Users are advised to use the official myGov platform or the Express Plus app to access Government EasyPay securely.
The agency reiterated that scammers often impersonate government bodies and may exploit periods of system change to deceive individuals. Ensuring the use of verified online portals remains one of the most effective defences against such fraud. The transition to a more secure payment platform underscores the government’s broader effort to modernise digital interactions and enhance user protection.
