A total of 100 Fijian families have completed their pre-departure training under the Pacific Labour Mobility Scheme (PALM), which paves the way for them to join relatives already residing and working in Australia. Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh, emphasized that these families were chosen due to their exemplary records and behavior, which played a crucial role in being shortlisted by Australian employers.
This initiative not only facilitates family reunification but also allows spouses of the migrant workers to seek employment in Australia while their children can access education at local rates. Minister Singh explained that the selection of families is heavily influenced by their associated workers’ performance, and arrangements for the families’ migration are made following employer recommendations.
The scheme aims to strengthen the ties between Fiji and Australia, providing valuable employment opportunities and fostering familial bonds. Singh mentioned that selected families have undergone a comprehensive pre-departure program to prepare them for their new lives, covering aspects such as cultural integration, rights, and responsibilities, thus ensuring a smoother transition.
This initiative aligns closely with previous efforts to promote family unity among migrant workers. An earlier program noted that 106 families would benefit similarly by being able to live together, highlighting the importance of emotional support during their overseas endeavors. This positive development represents a significant step toward enhancing the quality of life for Fijians working abroad, providing not only economic opportunities but also family stability.
The introduction of such programs reflects a hopeful commitment from both the Fijian and Australian governments towards enabling families to thrive together in new environments, allowing them to maintain stronger connections and support systems.
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