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.

10.9.9.20 Australia to Ireland & Ireland to Australia

Moving between Australia & Ireland

Generally, benefits paid under the Agreement are portable indefinitely when the person travels between Australia and Ireland. This means people being paid benefits under the Agreement can travel between Australia and Ireland without the time restrictions that may apply to autonomous pensioners.

Australia to Ireland

People paid under the Agreement who reside in Australia and travel to Ireland temporarily, will have their rate calculated using the inside Australia rate in 10.9.8.50 for a period of 26 weeks or less. Once they have been in Ireland for more than 26 weeks, their rate will be calculated using the outside Australia rate in 10.9.8.20.

People paid under the Agreement who leave Australia permanently for Ireland will have their rate calculated using the outside Australia rate in 10.9.8.40 as soon as they leave Australia.

Ireland to Australia

People paid under the Agreement who reside in Ireland and travel to Australia, temporarily, will continue to have their rate calculated using the outside Australia rate in 10.9.8.40 for a period of 26 weeks or less. Once they have been in Australia for more than 26 weeks, their rate will be calculated using the inside Australia rate in 10.9.8.50.

People who come to Australia from Ireland permanently and who do not qualify for an Australian benefit in their own right, will have their rate calculated using the inside Australia rate in 10.9.8.50 as soon as they arrive in Australia. Their rate will change to the normal autonomous rate as soon as they meet the usual residence qualifying periods, for example, 10 years residence in Australia for Australian age pension.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 8 Ireland

Policy reference: SS Guide 10.9.8.20 Outside Australia Rate - Agreement with Ireland, 10.9.8.50 Inside Australia Rate - Agreement with Ireland

Last reviewed: