Clients from Australia

When a former resident of Australia applies for a New Zealand benefit or pension it is important to know whether they are receiving an Australian pension or if they may be entitled to one.

All clients who have lived in Australia for 1 year or more, regardless of where they were born, must complete the residence details section of the application form and this information must be entered in CMS.

This is irrespective of whether the client uses the agreement with Australia to qualify for a New Zealand benefit or pension, or qualifies under the New Zealand domestic legislation.

For more information contact International Services or see:

• Australian pensions paid in New Zealand
• Clients entitled to Australian pensions
• Other payments

If a client applies for New Zealand Superannuation at age 65 on or after 1 July 2017 they will need to meet the residential qualifications based solely on their New Zealand residence.

If they do not have sufficient New Zealand residence, they will only be able to use their Australian residence at the date they reach the qualifying age for the residence at the date they reach the qualifying age for the Australian Age Pension.

For more information see:

• Qualifying age for Australian Age Pension