The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

10.26.4.20 Where People can Lodge Claims under the Agreement with Poland

Where claims can be lodged

Claims for Australian benefits covered by the Agreement can be lodged:

  • in Australia, at any Centrelink office, or
  • in Poland, with any of the Polish Social Insurance Institutions, and
  • requests on certificate of coverage matters can only be made at the ATO or any of the Social Insurance Institutions in Poland.

Under Article 19, paragraph 2 of the Agreement, the date on which a claim is lodged with either of the above-mentioned authorities is the official date of lodgement for all purposes. This ensures that people outside Australia and Poland are not disadvantaged as a result of mailing delays.

Article 19, paragraph 3 allows a claim for benefit under the legislation of a party to also be considered as a claim for the 'corresponding' benefit from the other party provided that:

  • the claim, or request, is received by the other party within 6 months of the original claim being lodged, and
  • the applicant stated on the original claim an affiliation with the other country.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 25 Republic of Poland

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