The Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, has confirmed that the Ministry is aware of a recent case shared on social media concerning the death of a former Pacific Australian Labour Mobility (PALM) female worker. Christine Lewailagi, who departed Fiji to work for Midfield Meat Group in Victoria in May 2022, passed away in June 2024.
On June 17, 2024, the Ministry received a notification from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) outlining that Ms. Lewailagi had experienced headaches a week prior and was hospitalized for evaluation. Subsequently, she was transferred to Austin Hospital in Melbourne for further treatment, where she underwent two surgeries for a brain tumor. Unfortunately, the report indicated that she required life support and was unlikely to recover.
Christine Lewailagi passed away on June 19, 2024, and her remains were repatriated to Fiji on July 6 for burial.
Minister Singh mentioned that the employment conditions and concerns raised on social media are being investigated thoroughly through the Country Liaison Officer (CLO) based in Victoria, ensuring that these matters are addressed properly.
The CLO, along with DEWR, will communicate with the employer and Fijian workers to ensure the welfare and treatment of Fijian workers engaged in the scheme are prioritized and respected.
Furthermore, Singh announced that the Employment Ministry plans to visit PALM workers in October to meet with Australian counterparts, employers, and Fijian workers. Discussions will focus on various issues faced by workers, including racism, bullying, workloads, exploitation, threats, unsafe practices, unfair termination, and forced labor.
The Ministry aims to enhance collaboration with Australian authorities and employers to implement better oversight and ensure compliance with fair labor practices. This initiative will involve regular workplace inspections and audits, alongside a strict zero-tolerance policy for any form of exploitation or mistreatment.
Additionally, during the Labour Mobility Stakeholder Engagement Workshop in Suva last week, the Australian Workers Union (AWU) expressed its commitment to ensuring that approved employers adhere to minimum standards.