Improving the wellbeing of individuals participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme remains a key focus for the Australian Government. However, significant challenges still exist in accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and information, particularly for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
A recent analysis by researchers and service providers identifies critical issues surrounding the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of PALM participants while in Australia, alongside five proposed actions to enhance their situation.
Firstly, it is essential to acknowledge that SRHR is often viewed as a delicate and taboo issue in many sending countries. Cultural and religious norms significantly influence access to SRH care and information. Upon arriving in Australia, participants can encounter several challenges, such as a lack of information, stigma, fear of judgment, limited access to technology, and concerns about cost, language barriers, and confidentiality, particularly regarding translator services. These obstacles are often aggravated by geographic and social isolation, as well as cultural differences.
Additionally, finding clear information on which SRH services are covered by PALM health insurance remains a problem. For instance, the coverage for pregnancy termination is often unclear, leading to varied experiences regarding costs and care in accessing abortion services. Moreover, inconsistencies in insurance coverage for pregnancy and childbirth exacerbate the issue, with some participants facing substantial out-of-pocket expenses despite having insurance.
Power imbalances within the PALM scheme further complicate matters, as employers are tasked with ensuring their employees’ welfare. This can put participants in vulnerable positions, making it challenging to keep personal matters, such as pregnancy status, confidential.
Participants who have experienced SGBV may also be reluctant to report incidents or seek help due to uncertainty regarding their visa entitlements and fears for their safety.
These challenges have tangible consequences for PALM participants, leading to unintended pregnancies and difficult decisions, often forcing women to hide their pregnancies out of fear of job loss. Many have faced ostracization from their families and communities back home, with limited resources for support. When seeking care, they frequently encounter high medical fees that can lead to financial strain.
In light of these issues, the authors propose several recommendations for the Australian Government.
Firstly, it’s vital to collaborate with Pacific civil society organizations to offer standardized and comprehensive SRHR information to participants before their departure. Organizations such as the International Planned Parenthood Federation have resources that could support pre-departure briefings and screenings.
Secondly, it is important to expand programs by Australian health providers that focus on culturally appropriate SRHR education for PALM participants while they are in Australia. Programs like those offered by True Relationships and Reproductive Health have been successfully reaching thousands of participants, yet many have yet to access this crucial information.
The third recommendation involves empowering PALM-approved employers to better assist their employees in accessing SRHR services. There is a need for training and resources to help employers support participants effectively.
Fourth, providing PALM participants with up-to-date information about available SRH services and insurance coverage is crucial. Participants should clearly understand which services are covered and where to access them.
Finally, establishing stronger protection mechanisms and confidential support channels is essential for participants to report issues related to SGBV and seek assistance. This includes engaging more Pacific Islander women in support roles and ensuring robust referral systems with service providers and crisis centers.
Australia’s Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Tony Burke, has emphasized the importance of prioritizing the wellbeing of those in the PALM scheme. The authors assert that addressing sexual and reproductive health and rights is a vital step toward enhancing overall wellbeing, and they urge the government to take action on these proposals.
This topic will be further explored at the Pacific Migration Workshop on September 3, hosted by the Development Policy Centre.
The research supporting this discussion is funded by the Pacific Research Program. The views expressed here reflect the authors’ insights.