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.

10.1.5.40 Minimum Periods for Australian Residents

People residing inside Australia

Generally, Australia's agreements do not require Australian residents to have any minimum period of Australian working life residence to use the totalisation provisions. Australian residents with sufficient periods of contributions in an agreement country can use the totalisation provisions of the relevant agreement to qualify for Australian payments even if they have no prior periods as an Australian resident during their working life.

This means a person who has just become an Australian resident, and satisfies other qualification criteria, can qualify for Australian age pension if they have at least 10 years contributions in the relevant agreement country.

Last reviewed: 21 September 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.