The warning by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) follows reports that unemployed people in north-west suburbs were being offered assistance to claim a $3000 bonus from the government.

They are told they will get the bonus if they make a $1000 payment and provide their personal details to the scammers.

An ATO spokeswoman said non-English-speaking communities were also being targeted.

"Scammers target a wide range of people. However, people from non-English-speaking communities may be vulnerable due to language barriers or unfamiliarity with the Australian tax system," she said.

Acting Tax Commissioner David Butler said victims would have their money paid back to them.

"The ATO will never ask you to pay money to receive a special government payment. This is illegal and any money issued will have to be paid back.

"Victims become aware that anything illegal has occurred once they are audited by the ATO and asked to provide supporting documentation."

For more information, contact 132861.

People who have difficulty with English can contact the ATO's translating and interpreting service on 131450.