10.11.9.40 Former Residents - Agreement with Austria
Former residents
SSAct section 1220(1) provides that former residents who return to Australia, are granted a benefit, then leave again within 2 years, will no longer be entitled to that benefit. Article 5, paragraph 1 of the Agreement specifically provides that this does not apply to people receiving benefits under the Agreement.
Accordingly, former residents who return to Australia and claim a benefit under the Agreement can subsequently leave Australia within 24 months and retain entitlement to that benefit.
Autonomous pensioners can transfer to a benefit under this Agreement in order to maintain qualification and portability if they travel to Austria.
In both these cases the Agreement will determine the rate payable.
Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 10 Austria
SSAct section 1220(1) No portability where claim based on short residence