COVID-19 and travel
Do not go overseas. A travel ban is in place.
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Money problems overseas
You are responsible for your finances when you're overseas. If you run out of money while you're away, contact family or friends. People in Australia may be able to transfer money to you.
Australian Government payments
Centrelink payments
If you're receiving an Australian Government payment and are overseas and unable to return to Australia due to COVID-19, you may be eligible to request a portability extension so that you continue to receive your payment.
You should contact Services Australia to discuss your situation.
Our Consular Emergency Centre can't help you with Centrelink payments. Contact Centrelink.
Check Centrelink's international phone numbers.
Find out about receiving Centrelink payments while overseas:
Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) payments
Our Consular Emergency Centre (CEC) can't help you with your Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) payments. Contact DVA.
Find out about receiving DVA payments while overseas.
International social security
Australia has agreements with some countries about social security payments. These agreements may help you to claim payments in Australia or the other country.
Check international social security agreements on the Department of Human Services website.
Consular services
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) helps Australians in difficulties overseas. The Consular Services Charter explains what we can and can't do.
We can't loan you money, except in exceptional circumstances.
If you do receive a loan, you may have to surrender your passport after you return to Australia. You might not be able to get a new passport until you repay the debt.
If you need help, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate during local business hours.
In a consular emergency, you can call the 24-hour CEC on +61 2 6261 3305.
Read more
- Find out what to do if you're robbed or mugged overseas.
- Read what to do when you need medical assistance overseas.
- If you can't pay your bills, you could be arrested or jailed.
- See the Consular Services Charter for what we can and can't do to help.
See also
- Read about international social security agreements (Department of Human Services).
- Find out about receiving Centrelink Payments while outside Australia (Department of Human Services).
- Find out about receiving DVA payments while overseas (Department of Veterans' Affairs).
Related content
Getting medical assistance overseas can be challenging and expensive, especially in an emergency. Read our advice on what to do when when you need help.
Learn what to do if you're worried about the welfare of an Australian overseas. See advice and information about missing persons.
When death happens overseas it can be difficult. During this time, consular staff will do what we can to assist you. However, there are limits to our help.