The Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, met with Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald in Suva to reaffirm their commitment to enhance the work rights and welfare of Fijian workers participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Program.
The meeting primarily aimed to strengthen the collaboration between Fiji and Australia regarding the PALM Program. Singh and McDonald addressed concerns related to allegations of modern-day slavery, racism, bullying, excessive workloads, unfair termination, and unsafe working conditions within the program.
Minister Singh emphasized the necessity to bolster compliance mechanisms. In response to recent media reports, Fiji’s Country Liaison Officer (CLO) and the Department of Workplace Relations (DEWR) are currently conducting a thorough investigation, with full support from the Australian High Commission. The High Commissioner confirmed that the investigation team will be visiting workplaces this weekend.
Discussions also included plans to engage an additional CLO to be stationed in Queensland, Australia, as well as proposals to increase travel allowances for existing CLOs, aiming to address workers’ grievances, particularly for those in remote areas.
The importance of direct communication with the DEWR and the establishment of desk officers for enhanced connectivity was underscored. Minister Singh acknowledged the role of the Fair Work Ombudsman in ensuring fair treatment and adherence to workplace standards.
A ministerial visit to Australia is planned for October 2024 to further develop the labor mobility program, which aims to benefit both Fijian workers and the Australian economy. The High Commission will also facilitate a meeting with the new Minister responsible for the DEWR.