You're responsible for your finances when you're overseas. If you run out of money while you're away, consider all options for financial support – for example, insurance, family, friends, bank or credit card company, travel agent and employer.
This page has information on Australian Government payments, international social security and consular services.
The information is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice. You may wish to seek independent personal financial advice specific to your needs from a licensed financial adviser.
Australian Government payments
Centrelink payments
To get your payment or concession card while outside Australia, you must continue to meet the qualification rules at all times.
Services Australia has information about payments outside of Australia, including what to do while you're overseas.
Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) payments
We can't help you with your DVA payments. 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.
If you’ve received financial assistance from DFAT
When you sign the Deed accepting financial assistance from DFAT, you're agreeing to repay the loan within six months of the date of the completed Deed. If you experience financial hardship, you can apply for a repayment plan to pay the debt by instalments. You must contact us within 6 months of receiving the load to qualify for a repayment plan.
If your loan falls due while you’re still overseas, contact DFAT to discuss the payment options available to you.
For questions about repaying your debt, contact TELS@dfat.gov.au.
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 (Services Australia)
- Find out about receiving Centrelink Payments while outside Australia (Services Australia)
- Find out about receiving DVA payments while overseas (Department of Veterans' Affairs)