The Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Pat Conroy, has announced an $8 million partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to implement programs for families and individuals participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme. This announcement was made during the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting held in Tonga.
Mr. Conroy stated that the funding will support three yet-to-be-determined countries, focusing on pre-departure training and courses for families, as well as courses designed to aid the reintegration of workers upon their return to their communities. He emphasized that this initiative aims to help families and individuals navigate the challenges associated with the migration opportunity.
He reaffirmed the Australian government’s commitment to ensuring the scheme operates fairly and equitably, with appropriate protections for workers and collaboration with Pacific governments. Mr. Conroy highlighted the necessity of direct engagement with these governments to ensure alignment with their national priorities.
Amy Pope, the director general of the UN International Organization for Migration, remarked that they are collaborating with the Australian Government to promote more regular and well-managed migration through the PALM scheme.
During a dialogue with civil society and private sector representatives, Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka noted that over 10,000 seasonal workers from Fiji benefit from the PALM scheme, contributing more than a billion dollars in remittances annually. However, he acknowledged that this has resulted in a shortage of skilled workers in Fiji and encouraged international projects to prioritize local recruitment to foster workforce development.
The funding will enhance educational resources, including training and learning materials, and aim to expand the capabilities of partner governments in supporting PALM workers and their families. The pilot program is set to run until the end of 2026.