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.

10.27.5.10 Totalising to qualify for an Australian benefit - Agreement with the Republic of North Macedonia

Totalising for an Australian age pension

Article 11 of the Agreement covers totalisation in order to qualify for an Australian benefit.

An insurance period in the Republic of North Macedonia can be added to periods as an Australian resident in order to meet the minimum residence requirements for Australian benefits under the SSAct. Non-continuous periods of insurance in the Republic of North Macedonia can be added together and regarded as continuous.

People residing in the Republic of North Macedonia must have a minimum of 12 months Australian working life residence (6 months of which must be continuous) before they can totalise to qualify for an Australian benefit. No minimum period of AWLR is required for an Australian benefit that is payable to an Australian resident.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 26 Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

Last reviewed: 11 November 2019

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