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.

10.9.1.20 General Principles of the Agreement with Ireland

General principles

The Agreement with Ireland 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 Ireland,
allowing people to totalise to meet minimum residence qualifications for Australian benefits and minimum contributions requirements for Irish benefits,
allowing Agreement benefits to be paid in Australia and Ireland,
offering income test concessions,
prescribing the calculation of Australian benefits inside and outside Australia, and
arranging for administrative co-operation between Australia and Ireland.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 8 Ireland

Last reviewed: 9 November 2015

The Australian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community. We pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.