Social Security Benefits: Australia
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the termination of the UK–Australia social security agreement in 2001 on UK citizens who return from Australia after long periods of work there; and whether the Government has considered reviewing the policy or providing support for returners who are unable to access either the Australian Age Pension or a UK State Pension.
Answered by Torsten Bell
The Government currently has no plans to reinstate or negotiate a new reciprocal social security agreement with Australia.
Support for pensioners who, for whatever reason, find themselves on a low income is provided through Pension Credit. It guarantees a minimum level of income – the Standard Minimum Guarantee – which will increase by 4.8% from April 2026, protecting the most vulnerable pensioners.
They may also have access to other forms of UK support subject to the usual eligibility rules, such as Housing Benefit (if in eligible accommodation) or Council Tax Reduction
These provisions operate independently of the former UK–Australia agreement and remain available to anyone who meets the eligibility requirements.
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