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.

10.14.9.20 Australia to Germany & Germany to Australia

Moving between Australia & Germany

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

Note: People in receipt of Australian disability support pension under the Agreement who are not severely disabled can travel to Germany and be paid for periods of up to 26 weeks. If they then leave for a third country, payability is limited to 4 weeks in a 12-month period or the balance of the 26 week period, whichever is the lesser.

Australia to Germany

People paid under the Agreement who reside in Australia and travel to Germany temporarily will continue to have their rate calculated using the inside Australia rate in 10.14.8.50 for a period of 26 weeks or less. Once they have been in Germany for more than 26 weeks, their rate will be calculated using the outside Australia rate in 10.14.8.20.

People paid under the Agreement who leave Australia permanently for Germany will have their rate calculated using the outside Australia rate in 10.14.8.20 immediately they leave Australia.

Germany to Australia

People paid under the Agreement who reside in Germany and travel to Australia temporarily will continue to have their rate calculated using the outside Australia rate in 10.14.8.20 for a period of 26 weeks or less. Once they have been in Australia for more than 26 weeks, their rate will be calculated using the inside Australia rate in 10.14.8.50.

People who come to Australia from Germany permanently, and who do not qualify for an Australian benefit autonomously, will have their rate calculated using the inside Australia rate in 10.14.8.50 as soon as they arrive in Australia. Their rate will change to the normal autonomous rate as soon as they meet the usual residential qualifying periods, for example 10 years residence in Australia for Australian age pension.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 14 Germany

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