The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, along with Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald, convened in Suva to reaffirm their governments’ dedication to enhancing work rights and welfare for Fijian workers involved in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Program.
The primary objective of their meeting was to bolster collaboration between Fiji and Australia concerning the PALM Program. During their discussions, Singh and McDonald addressed significant issues such as allegations of modern-day slavery, racism, bullying, excessive workloads, unfair termination, and unsafe working conditions within the program.
Minister Singh emphasized the necessity of strengthening compliance mechanisms. In light of recent media reports, he noted that Fiji’s Country Liaison Officer (CLO) and the Department of Workplace Relations (DEWR) were actively investigating these allegations, with the Australian High Commission’s full backing. The High Commissioner confirmed that the investigation team would visit the affected workplaces over the upcoming weekend.
Additionally, discussions included the potential engagement of an extra CLO based in Queensland, along with proposals to increase travel allowances for current CLOs, aimed at addressing workers’ grievances, particularly for those in remote Australian regions. The importance of direct communication with the DEWR and the establishment of desk officers for efficient dialogue was also highlighted.
Singh recognized the Fair Work Ombudsman for playing a crucial role in ensuring fair treatment and adherence to workplace standards. A ministerial visit to Australia is planned for October 2024 to enhance the labour mobility program for the benefit of Fijian workers and achieve beneficial outcomes for both nations. The High Commission will facilitate a meeting with the new Minister overseeing the DEWR.