AUFree

Centrelink Payments Abroad

Which payments continue overseas, which stop, and the portability rules you need to know.

Your situation

Which payment do you receive? How long will you be away?

Payment Portability Summary

Age Pension Portable

Continues indefinitely overseas, but may be reduced to a proportional rate after 26 weeks based on your Australian working life residence (AWLR). If you've lived in AU for 35+ years, you get the full rate.

First 26 weeksFull rate

After 26 weeksProportional (AWLR basis)

Agreement country?May qualify via social security agreement

DSP Limited

Portable if you have a severe condition (impairment rating 20+ points) or you're terminally ill. Otherwise, stops after 4 weeks.

Severe conditionContinues (proportional after 26 wks)

No severe conditionStops after 4 weeks

Carer Payment Limited

Portable for up to 6 weeks per trip if the care receiver travels with you. Not portable for permanent departure.

JobSeeker Payment Not Portable

Stops when you leave Australia. May be payable for up to 6 weeks for approved reasons (e.g., medical treatment, acute family crisis).

Family Tax Benefit Part A Limited

Portable for 6 weeks for temporary absences. Stops after 6 weeks unless the child is in an approved study program abroad.

Family Tax Benefit Part B Limited

Portable for 6 weeks. Stops after that. No long-term portability.

Parenting Payment Limited

Portable for 6 weeks. Stops on permanent departure. Both single and partnered versions have the same rule.

Youth Allowance / Austudy Not Portable

Not portable except for approved overseas study or acute family crisis (limited period).

Important: You must notify Services Australia before you travel. If you leave without notifying them, payments may be suspended and you may incur a debt. Call the international phone line: +61 3 6222 3455 from overseas.