The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, recently met with Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald in Suva to reaffirm both governments’ commitment to enhancing the work rights and welfare of Fijian workers participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Program.
The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation between Fiji and Australia regarding the PALM Program. Minister Singh and McDonald engaged in extensive discussions about serious issues such as modern-day slavery, racism, bullying, excessive workloads, unjust terminations, and unsafe working conditions reported under the program.
Minister Singh stressed the necessity of enhancing compliance mechanisms. In response to recent media claims, Fiji’s Country Liaison Officer (CLO) and the Department of Workplace Relations (DEWR) are actively investigating the allegations with the full support of the Australian High Commission. The High Commissioner confirmed that the investigation team will be visiting workplaces this weekend.
Minister Singh also mentioned discussions around appointing an additional CLO in Queensland and increasing travel allowances for current CLOs to effectively handle workers’ grievances, particularly for those in remote areas of Australia. The need for direct communication with the DEWR and having desk officers for immediate support was also highlighted.
Singh expressed gratitude to the Fair Work Ombudsman for its role in ensuring fair treatment and adherence to workplace standards. A ministerial visit to Australia is scheduled for October 2024 to further enhance the labour mobility program, aimed at benefiting Fijian workers and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes for both nations. The High Commission plans to facilitate a meeting with the new Minister responsible for the DEWR.