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.

10.13.9.20 Australia to Denmark & Denmark to Australia

Moving between Australia & Denmark

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

Australia to Denmark

People who are paid under the Agreement who leave Australia to travel to Denmark, either temporarily or permanently, will have their rate calculated using the outside Australia rate in 10.13.8.20 as soon as they leave Australia.

Denmark to Australia

People who are paid under the Agreement who leave Denmark to travel to Australia temporarily, will have their rate calculated using the inside Australia rate in 10.13.8.50 as soon as they arrive in Australia.

People who come permanently to Australia from Denmark and who do not qualify for an Australian benefit in their own right, will have their rate calculated using the inside Australia rate in 10.13.8.50 as soon as they arrive in Australia. Their rate will change to the autonomous rate as soon as they meet the usual residential qualifying periods, for example, 10 years residence for Australian age pension.

Parenting payment (single)

Autonomous PPS is only payable for 6 weeks following departure from Australia. However, if the person is travelling to Denmark, they can maintain qualification beyond 6 weeks by transferring to a benefit paid under the Agreement.

If the original intention was that the absence would be temporary, they can be paid autonomously up to the date their intention changes or for the allowed portability period for PPS - whichever is the earlier.

Note: The Agreement does not allow for PPS claims to be lodged while the person is in Denmark.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 12 Denmark

Policy reference: SS Guide 10.13.8.20 Outside Australia Rate - Agreement with Denmark, 10.13.8.50 Inside Australia Rate - Agreement with Denmark, 7.1.2.20 Application of portability rules (portability table)

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