Dreaming of sipping espresso in Rome, cruising the Greek Islands, or finally ticking off that long-awaited trip to see the grandkids in London?
For many older Australians, the lure of overseas travel is stronger than ever—especially as airports gear up for their busiest winter in years.
But before you dust off your passport and start packing, there’s one crucial thing to check: how will your Centrelink Age Pension be affected while you’re abroad?
Let’s break down the facts, dispel the myths, and make sure you don’t get caught out by the fine print.
The good news: Your Age Pension can be paid indefinitely, with conditions
First, the headline: most Australians receiving the Age Pension can continue to receive payments while travelling overseas.
In fact, for many, the pension is ‘paid indefinitely’ even if you’re gallivanting around the globe. But (and there’s always a but), there are some important exceptions and timeframes to keep in mind.
The six-week rule: What happens first
If you’re heading overseas for a short holiday, you can relax. For the first six weeks you’re away, your Age Pension payments and supplements continue as normal.
You don’t even need to notify Centrelink if your trip is under six weeks—how’s that for hassle-free?
But if your trip stretches beyond six weeks, things start to change:
After six weeks:
- Your Energy Supplement stops.
- Your Pension Supplement drops to the basic rate.
- Your Pensioner Concession Card is cancelled (but you’ll get a new one when you return, if you’re still eligible).
Let’s put some numbers to that. The Energy Supplement is currently $14.10 a fortnight for singles and $21.20 for couples (combined).
The maximum Pension Supplement is $83.60 per fortnight for singles and $126 for couples. After six weeks, you’ll notice a dip in your payments.
The 26-week (six-month) rule: The residency test
If you’re planning a longer adventure—say, a six-month European odyssey or an extended stay with family overseas—your Age Pension rate may be reduced after 26 weeks.
This is where your ‘Australian Working Life Residence’ comes into play.
- If you’ve lived in Australia as a resident for 35 years or more between the ages of 16 and Age Pension age, your rate won’t change.
- If you’ve lived here for less than 35 years in that period, your pension will be pro-rated. For example, if you were a resident for 10 years, you’ll receive 10/35ths of your current pension rate.
Special cases: Moving overseas for good
If you’re not just travelling but actually moving overseas, the rules are stricter.
Your supplements are reduced, and your Pensioner Concession Card is cancelled as soon as you leave. The calculation for your pension rate will depend on your residency history, as above.
What about New Zealand?
Heading across the ditch? There’s a different calculation for those travelling to New Zealand, thanks to the social security agreement between our two countries. It’s best to check the specific rules with Services Australia before you go.
How to notify Centrelink (and why you should)
The easiest way to let Centrelink know about your travel plans is through your Centrelink online account via myGov.
It’s quick, easy, and ensures you stay on the right side of the rules. If you’re unsure how your travel might affect your payments, you can also use the online tools or speak to a Services Australia officer for tailored advice.
Why all the fuss?
With millions of Australians expected to travel this winter—Sydney Airport alone is bracing for over 2.5 million passengers during the school holidays—it’s more important than ever to be across the rules.
No one wants to come home to a nasty surprise in their bank account or a cancelled concession card.
Tips for travelling pensioners
Plan ahead: Check the length of your trip and how it might affect your payments.
Keep records: Note your departure and return dates.
Stay informed: Rules can change, so check the latest information before you go.
Contact Centrelink: If in doubt, ask! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Have your say!
Have you travelled overseas while receiving the Age Pension? Did you run into any surprises, or do you have tips for fellow YourLifeChoices members?
Share your experiences and advice in the comments below—your story could help someone else avoid a travel headache!
And if you’re planning a trip, bon voyage! Just don’t forget to check your Centrelink settings before you go. Safe travels, and happy exploring!
Also read: Centrelink docks traveller’s pension after extended stay overseas
