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.

10.8.1.20 General Principles of the Agreement with the Netherlands

General principles

The Agreement with the Netherlands is a shared responsibility agreement and helps people to qualify for benefits they might not otherwise be eligible for. It conforms to the principles of Australia's shared responsibility agreements by:

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

The Agreement with the Netherlands also assists recipients of Netherlands' pensions in Australia:

  • as it allows non-Dutch citizens who have not resided in the Netherlands' for at least 6 years after reaching age 59 to get a higher rate of Netherlands' pension, and
  • to retain entitlement to Netherlands' pensions that would otherwise be lost under the Export Restrictions on Benefits Act (BEU).

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 7 The Netherlands

Last reviewed: