Introduction

The social security agreement between the governments of New Zealand and Australia allows former residents of one country access to certain benefits and pensions under the other country's social security system.

Under the agreement:

• Australian working age residence between 20 years of age and the qualifying age for the Australian Age Pension (up to a maximum of 45 years) can be regarded as residence in New Zealand to help a client meet the residence qualifications for some New Zealand benefits and pensions
• New Zealand working age residence between 20 years of age and the qualifying age for the Australian Age Pension (up to a maximum of 45 years) can be regarded as residence in Australia to help a client meet the residence qualifications for some Australian pensions
• some Australian pensions and payments can be paid in New Zealand
• some New Zealand benefits and pensions can be paid in Australia
• overpayments can be recovered by one country on behalf of the other country
• War pensions from either country are not included in the agreement, however, the New Zealand Veterans Pension is covered
• the agreement covers clients residing on or intending to reside on, or with residence on, Norfolk Island

If a client advises you that they are moving to Australia, thinking about moving to Australia, or looking at a long term trip to Australia you should contact International Services who will provide you with all the information needed to help clients make their decision and to ensure they receive their correct entitlement.

A new Social Security Agreement between New Zealand and Australia is effective from 1 July 2017.

Clients who were receiving a New Zealand pension or benefit under the 2002 Agreement will continue to receive their payments under that Agreement. However, if their entitlement to a pension or benefit is cancelled on or after 1 July 2017, they will need to reapply under the provisions of the 2017 Agreement.

Clients who are moving to Australia or thinking about moving to Australia on or after 1 July 2017 will be covered by the 2017 Agreement.

Clients returning to New Zealand from Australia on or after 1 July 2017, who don't meet the New Zealand residence requirements in their own right, are covered by the 2017 Agreement. You should contact International Services who will provide you with all the information needed to help these clients.