US, Sweden Set to Begin Social Security Talks

The Albanese Labor Government will soon commence negotiations with the Swedish Government on a bilateral social security agreement.

An agreement would boost access to certain Australian and Swedish social security benefits for eligible people who have lived or worked in both countries.

Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said Australia has much to gain from an agreement and she looks forward to strengthening the ties between our two countries.

"It's great to see negotiations will soon get underway for a social security agreement with Sweden, giving people greater freedom and choice in how and where they spend their retirement, secure in the knowledge they will be supported," Minister Rishworth said.

"Businesses operating across both countries may also benefit, with this arrangement ensuring they don't have to pay compulsory superannuation and insurance contributions in both countries for seconded employees."

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong said the agreement will be an important step in deepening the Australia-Sweden relationship.

"With growing family and community links between Sweden and Australia, more Australians are dividing their lives between the countries," Minister Wong said.

"This agreement will provide greater choice for retiring Australians with Swedish connections, and will help to remove burdens for Australian and Swedish businesses seeking to invest in each other's economy."

Swedish Ambassador Pontus Melander said an agreement would be a significant milestone in growing Australia's relationship with Sweden.

"Agreements like this are very important to facilitate for our citizens and bring Australia and Sweden even closer together," Mr Melander said.

"We are already close friends and partners, and it is excellent that negotiations on a bilateral social security agreement have started."

Australia has social security agreements with 32 countries.