Seventy-eight families from Fiji have successfully migrated to Australia as part of a special pilot program under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme that enables Pacific workers to bring their families with them. This initiative was highlighted by Jan Hutton, First Assistant Secretary of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, during a recent session at the Australian High Commission in Suva.
Hutton commended the success of this program, which allows PALM workers on longer-term contracts to reunite with their spouses and children in Australia. Families now have access to crucial resources including healthcare, education, and social support, significantly enhancing their quality of life in their new home.
“This initiative is part of a larger investment by the Australian Government, totaling $440 million, which aims to strengthen the PALM scheme and create more opportunities for participating countries,” noted Hutton. The ongoing support for families of PALM workers will help maintain strong family connections while one partner works abroad, addressing previous concerns surrounding separation.
The PALM scheme is vital for Fiji, with remittances from participating workers contributing around nine percent to the nation’s GDP, amounting to roughly AUD 800 million annually. Australia has expressed its commitment to working closely with Fiji and other Pacific nations to expand this family accompaniment pilot, nurturing a partnership that prioritizes the well-being of families and economic growth.
This development not only supports Fijian families in their transition to a new country but also reflects a broader commitment to facilitating family unity and integration within the workforce. The positive outlook surrounding the program reinforces the importance of supportive family environments for migrant workers, contributing to a happier and more sustainable life in Australia.
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