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.

10.20.7.30 Overpayments Resulting from Arrears of Norwegian Benefits

Overpayments

Article 26 of the Agreement allows for a debt to be raised against individuals who have been overpaid an Australian benefit as a result of the grant of a Norwegian benefit. Recovery of a debt can be by cash refund or withholding from future entitlement to any Australian pension, benefit or allowance.

The recovery from future entitlements would generally only apply when:

the arrears are insufficient to fully recover the overpayment, or
the arrears have been released directly to the applicant.

In addition to the above, from 1 July 2004 a debt can be raised against both an applicant AND THEIR PARTNER (if applicable) under SSAct section 1228A. For more detail, see 4.3.6.10 Income from overseas payments - general rules.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 19 Norway

SSAct section 1228A Comparable foreign payment debt recovery

Last reviewed: 21 September 2015

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