The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

10.15.1.20 General Principles of the Agreement with the USA

General principles

The Agreement with the USA is a shared responsibility agreement that helps people to qualify for benefits they might not otherwise get and conforms to the principles of Australia's shared responsibility agreements by:

allowing people to lodge claims for benefits in Australia and the USA,
allowing people to totalise to meet minimum residence qualifications for Australian benefits and minimum contribution requirements for US benefits,
allowing Agreement benefits to be paid in the USA and Australia,
offering income test concessions,
prescribing the calculation of Australian benefits inside and outside Australia, and
arranging administrative cooperation between Australia and the USA.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 13 USA

Last reviewed: 9 November 2015

The Australian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community. We pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.