A family in Tau Village, Nadroga, has been forced to cancel plans for their father’s 50th birthday celebration following the tragic death of their daughter, Christine Lewailagi, 24, in June under unclear circumstances. Christine had been working in Melbourne, Australia, as part of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme when her life was cut short.
Christine’s parents, Sairusi Nadiligo and Sainimere Tabua, are seeking answers regarding the events that led to their daughter’s sudden death. Ms. Tabua expressed her grief, stating, “We are searching for answers and seeking justice for her death.” Christine left Fiji in May 2022 to financially support her family, taking a position as a slaughterhouse assistant with Midfield Meat Group under the PALM Scheme Visa 403.
Her mother claims Christine suffered from “systemic abuse and modern-day slavery” that many seasonal workers from Pacific Islands face. Ms. Tabua revealed that her daughter frequently communicated her feelings of mistreatment in Australia. Christine described the harsh demands of her job, where she was often tasked with caring for thousands of sheep alone, a workload she found overwhelming.
A close family friend, Ross Johnston, labeled Christine’s death as a byproduct of “modern-day slavery,” suggesting that many workers under the PALM scheme are too fearful to voice their concerns due to a lack of rights. Johnston, who viewed Christine as a granddaughter, shared how she found brief relief from her challenging job during weekend visits to him, yet she rarely spoke of her struggles, seemingly out of fear of jeopardizing her employment.
According to reports dated June 17, the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations was informed that Christine had a headache before being hospitalized for evaluation in Australia. After two surgeries for a brain tumor at Austin Hospital, she remained on life support with her recovery in question.
Minister Agni Deo Singh confirmed that the ministry is actively examining issues highlighted by the case and intends to meet with PALM workers and Australian counterparts in October to address problems like racism, bullying, workload, and exploitation.
Christine’s death certificate indicated she died from meningioma, a type of brain tumor. Vani Catanasiga, executive director of the Fiji Council of Social Services, emphasized the need for better protection and monitoring of workers’ welfare under the PALM scheme. She criticized both Fijian and Australian authorities for failing to safeguard the rights of Fijian workers who contribute to Australia’s economy.
The Australian High Commission in Fiji has acknowledged the allegations surrounding Christine’s treatment and has pledged to conduct thorough investigations into any claims of worker mistreatment.