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.

10.2.10.10 Information Which can be Exchanged - Agreement with New Zealand

Information which can be exchanged

Article 18 of the Agreement covers the exchange of information between Australia and New Zealand. Generally, Australia and New Zealand can exchange information that will assist either country to grant a benefit to a person, whether that person is residing in Australia, New Zealand or a third country. Information covered by this provision includes the person's:

  • name,
  • date of birth,
  • gender,
  • passport number,
  • country of citizenship,
  • date/s of arrival and/or departure from Australia or New Zealand, and
  • information which identifies the ship or aircraft the person travelled on.

Australia and New Zealand can also exchange information on:

  • the benefit a person is in receipt of,
  • the amount of benefit payable to that person, and
  • whether there is a recoverable debt under the Agreement.

Information can be exchanged in relation to benefits payable under this Agreement and benefits payable under the social security law of Australia or New Zealand.

Part A of the Schedule provides that requests for information under Article 18, relating to an individual, may be made for social security purposes only. Part A allows Australia and New Zealand to provide information, they receive from each other, to taxation authorities for the purposes of assessing a person's tax liability, or detecting fraud or tax evasion.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 3 New Zealand

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