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What is the dividend withholding rate between Australia and China?

Under the Australia-China tax treaty, the withholding rate on dividends is 15% for portfolio investors (general rate). A reduced rate of 5% applies when the beneficial owner is a company holding a qualifying ownership stake (typically 10% or more of voting stock). Note that the reduced rate requires the recipient to file the appropriate treaty benefit claim form before payment. This 15% rate compares to a median of 15% across Australia's 48 active treaty partners, and 10% across China's 47 active partners.

Network Comparison

Australia

Rank 9 of 48 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: Canada (15%), Switzerland (15%), Chile (15%)

Higher rates with: Cyprus (15%), Czech Republic (15%), Germany (15%)

China

Rank 40 of 47 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: United States (10%), Vietnam (10%), South Africa (10%)

Higher rates with: Brazil (15%), Canada (15%), Germany (15%)

Sources

Data last reviewed: 2026-04-07

Important: Treaty rates require proper claim forms (e.g., IRS Form W-8BEN for U.S. treaties, HMRC DT-Individual for U.K. treaties, CRA Form NR301 for Canadian treaties) filed before payment. Limitation on Benefits (LOB) provisions may restrict eligibility. A 0% withholding rate does not mean no tax — the residence country may still tax the income. This is not tax advice.

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