Alan,I have just over 17 years service in the Met Police and am in the process of applying
for a skilled indpendent visa(wife is a nurse).
We do not anticipate being in a position to make the move for a minimum of two years.
My wife has just joined the NHS pension scheme so her contributions will not amount to much
in just two+ years.
Both are excellent final salary schemes which are probably as secure as any scheme gets.They are both ring fenced in terms of the current benefits ie option to take 2/3rds of pensionable pay/lump sum up to 25 %.
I am confident that my wife will go into nursing when in OZ but I may retrain or study when there
and therefore may not be "working" for a few years on arrival.
What are the big pros and cons/do's or dont's of leaving the schemes in the UK.
As we would not be contributing to these schemes when in Australia does that mean they are not subject to tax on growth
because they are not invested funds/schemes but underwritten by govt/treasury.
Are there any implications re the 6 month rule bearing in mind I might not be working for at least 6 months on arrival.
Lastly what would be the position if I retired with 25 years service(can receive pension with this amount of service)with regards to tax on pension if we go to OZ on my retirement.
Many thanks.Bill.

Dear Bill,

Thank you for your posting.

I am afraid I do not advise on specific issues such as those you have mentioned ... this is an area where I earn a living!

I will be happy to send you some further information if you would like to send me an email (alan - at - collettandco - dot - com).

Best regards.