Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Pat Conroy, has announced an $8 million partnership with the International Organization for Migration to implement programs aimed at supporting 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.
The funding will assist three yet-to-be-determined countries, providing pre-departure training for families as well as courses aimed at helping workers reintegrate into their communities upon their return. Conroy stated that the initiative is focused on empowering families and individuals to maximize the opportunities presented by the scheme while managing associated challenges.
He emphasized the Australian government’s commitment to ensuring fairness and equity within the scheme, highlighting the importance of protecting workers’ rights and engaging in consultations with Pacific governments. Conroy noted that it is crucial to align the scheme with the national priorities of these governments.
Amy Pope, the Director General of the UN International Organization for Migration, mentioned that they are collaborating with the Australian Government to facilitate a more regular and well-managed migration process through the PALM scheme.
In a discussion with civil society and private sector representatives, Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka revealed that over 10,000 seasonal workers in Fiji benefit from the scheme, contributing more than a billion dollars annually in remittances. He pointed out that this has resulted in a shortage of skilled workers in Fiji and urged international projects to focus on local recruitment to promote workforce development.
This funding will enhance educational resources, including training materials, and expand the capacity of partner governments to support PALM workers and their families. The pilot program is set to run until the end of 2026.