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.

3.10.4.30 Notification period for certain social security pension recipients - 28 days

Summary

Social security payment recipients living overseas will have up to 28 days to report any changes in their circumstances. Allowing 28 days to notify recognises that it may not always be possible for overseas recipients to comply with a 14-day notification period (1.1.N.125).

For payment recipients granted an extended notification period, the extended period will apply from the date of the event that led to them being granted the extension, such as the date they went overseas.

Partner remains in Australia

Where a recipient goes overseas permanently or intends to remain overseas for at least 12 months, but their partner remains in Australia, the notification period for each of them is different. However, to prevent any possibility of overpayment, Centrelink should be notified within 14 days as most events will apply to each of the couple.

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.10.4.10 General notification period - 14 days

Last reviewed: