Fijian families participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme will soon have access to education for their children and essential healthcare services, thanks to a family visa arrangement established in response to a formal request from the Fijian Government. This initiative will benefit 106 families who are set to join their spouses currently working in Australia under this scheme.
Australian Deputy High Commissioner Clair McNamara confirmed the government’s commitment to fulfilling these needs, ensuring that families relocating under this pilot program will find a safe and nurturing environment. This initiative is part of the Vuvale Partnership, which emphasizes family values shared by both Fiji and Australia.
McNamara highlighted the importance of listening to the concerns of families, stating, “The key thing from an Australian perspective is that family listen to each other, we hear each other’s concerns and we try and act and we try and do better when we’re supporting each other.” She acknowledged the challenges posed by previous separations under the scheme and noted that the Australian Government is responsive to these issues.
While celebrating the positive progress made through this adjustment, McNamara also recognized that all new initiatives have room for improvement and encouraged families to share their concerns and questions as they arise.
This development not only provides hope for a better future for families involved but also strengthens the ties between Fiji and Australia, fostering a spirit of cooperation and understanding.
In summary, the assurance of access to education and healthcare signifies a meaningful step towards supporting Fijian families, creating pathways for a brighter collective future.
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