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Keep us up to date
It may be difficult to keep us up to date while you are overseas if you haven’t set up your online account. It’s important you do this before you go, so you can check your sign in options.
If you can’t access myGov while you’re away, you can’t update your details online.
Setting up online accounts while you’re overseas
If you’re already overseas, you can create a myGov account. You can link your services including Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support. Read more about how to create a myGov account on the myGov website.
After you’ve set up your account, check your sign in options. If you choose your Digital ID or secret questions and answers to sign in, you won’t need your Australian mobile number. Read more about accessing myGov while overseas on the myGov website.
You can get help creating and managing your myGov account in the help section of the myGov website. Read more about how to contact myGov or your linked services in the contact us section of the myGov website.
Once you have a myGov account, you can set up your myGov app. Then you can access the same account through the myGov app. Read more about the myGov app on the myGov website.
Changes to the way we can receive foreign currency cheques and money orders
The Australian payment system is changing. Some banks no longer accept foreign currency cheques and international money orders. From 19 December 2024, we can no longer accept payments made by these methods.
Read more about your options when making a child support payment or repaying a Centrelink debt.
If you get a Centrelink payment or concession card
You must continue to meet the eligibility rules to keep your payments or concession card while you’re outside Australia.
If your Centrelink online account is linked to myGov you can keep us up to date online.
You can also update us by calling us on the phone number that relates to your payment.
If you’re enrolled in Medicare
Medicare doesn’t cover you while you’re overseas. Make sure you have a plan for health care before you travel. Countries that have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with us may cover some of the cost.
If your Medicare online account is linked to myGov you can update your details online.
If you have a Child Support case
If your situation or circumstances change while overseas, you’ll need to keep us up to date.
If your Child Support online account is linked to myGov you can do this online.
You can also call us on one of our Child Support international lines.
Get help in an emergency
If you’re overseas and are impacted by an emergency, contact an Australian consulate. Read more about consular services on the Smartraveller website.
Consulates can help if you:
- need an emergency passport
- have experienced a natural disaster, terrorist attack or civil disturbance
- are a victim of a crime
- have been arrested
- need help with a death of an Australian.
Prepare for returning home
What happens when you come home depends on which state or territory you’re returning to. Make sure you’re aware of any changes while you’re away.