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.

10.2.7.40 Recovery of Other Debts - Agreement with New Zealand

Recovery of other debts

Article 19, paragraph 4 of the Agreement allows Australia and New Zealand to recover certain debts for other social security payments that are not related to an embargo discussed in 10.2.7.20. The debt can only be recovered at the request of the country that raised the original debt and must comply with the terms and conditions in Part B of the Schedule of the Agreement. Recovery can be by withholding from current Australian benefit, cash instalment or lump sum payment. If the person in Australia appeals against the recovery of a New Zealand debt, withholdings from the Australian benefit will cease until the appeal is heard.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 3 New Zealand

Last reviewed: 3 July 2017

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