Payments if you have a humanitarian or refugee Visa

In general, social security payments from Centrelink are only available to people who reside in Australia and are either Australian citizens or holders of permanent visas. In addition, most social security payments and concession cards, except Family Tax Benefit and Child Care Benefit, have a two year newly arrived resident's waiting period.

There are some exemptions, e.g. refugee and humanitarian visa holders. Some pension payments have their own 'qualifying residence' requirements with some exceptions. Also, some services are only available when receiving a payment from Centrelink.

It is also important to state whether you are part of an Assurance of Support program where an Australian citizen has sponsored you to move to Australia.

Newly arrived humanitarian entrants may be eligible for a Crisis Payment.

For more information, telephone Centrelink on 13 1202 or go to Newly Arrived Resident's Waiting Period.