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.

10.14.1.20 General Principles - Agreement with Germany

General principles

The Agreement with Germany is a shared responsibility Agreement that helps people to qualify for benefits they might not otherwise get and conforms to the principles of Australia's shared responsibility agreements by:

  • allowing people to lodge claims for benefits in Australia and in Germany,
  • allowing people to totalise to meet minimum residence qualifications for Australian benefits and minimum German periods of coverage for German benefits,
  • allowing Agreement benefits to be paid in Germany and Australia,
  • offering income test concessions,
  • prescribing the calculation of Australian benefits inside and outside Australia, and
  • arranging administrative cooperation between Australia and Germany.

The Supplementary Agreement on Social Security between Australia and Germany removes the requirement for Australian and German employers to make compulsory contributions into both systems when an employee is sent to work temporarily in the other country.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 14 Germany

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