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.

10.1.12.10 Exchange of Information

Exchange of information

Australia's agreements specify what type of information can be shared by Australia and the agreement country. This is usually information needed for the effective operation of the agreement and the social security schemes of Australia and the agreement country. The rules about exchange of information are stated clearly in each agreement.

Centrelink International Services is responsible for the exchange of information between Australia and the agreement country.

Generally agreements provide for information to be exchanged according to the following rules:

  • if the exchange of information and/or mutual assistance is stated to be for the administration of each country's legislation, as well as for the agreement, information can be exchanged so long as it is relevant to an applicant's eligibility for one of the payments covered by the agreement, even if it is being received without the help of the agreement,
  • if an agreement allows for information exchange only for the purposes of the administration of the agreement, then no other applicant information is allowed to be exchanged, and
  • if an agreement states that the exchange of information and/or mutual assistance is to cover administration of the social security laws of each country, the flow of information is broader and will cover information relevant to the applicant's eligibility for all payments, including those not covered by the agreement.

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