Seminars explain new Social Security Agreement with Poland
Victoria media release
Wednesday, 8 September 2010
People who have worked in Poland may now qualify for an Australian Age Pension and/or a Polish pension under a new Social Security Agreement.
Centrelink is holding two community information seminars to explain how the new Agreement may benefit both new and existing customers.
Centrelink Multicultural Services Officer Rick Comfort said the Agreement starts next month so it is important that people understand how the Agreement may affect them.
"A Polish interpreter will be present at the seminars, and we’ll explain the new agreement in simple and easy-to-understand terms. Representatives from Centrelink International Services and the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs will also be there," Rick said.
"The Agreement provides improved access to the Age Pension from both countries.
"Other Polish pensions such as Disability and Survivors may also be claimed in some circumstances.
"During October, Centrelink will send Polish claim forms to customers whose records show they have a connection to Poland. Anyone wishing to claim Australian Age Pension under the Agreement should contact Centrelink."
For more information about claiming a Polish or Australian pension, people can contact Centrelink on 13 1202 to speak to us in Polish, or 13 1673 for English.
A fact sheet titled Social Security Agreement between Australia and Poland is also available in both languages from Centrelink’s website.
Centrelink Information Seminars:
- Where: Polish Senior Citizens Club, Betty Day Centre, 67 Argyle Street, St Kilda.
- When: Tuesday, 14 September 2010, at 2pm to 4pm (end time approx.)
- Where: Rowville Polish Senior Citizens Club, Polish House ‘Syrena’, 1325 Stud Road, Rowville.
- When: Thursday, 16 September 2010, at 1:30pm to 3pm (end time approx)
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.