In a significant development, 106 Fijian families participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme (PALM) will have the opportunity to relocate their families to Australia, thanks to the newly launched Family Accompaniment Pilot. This initiative aims to provide essential support and resources to these workers and their families.
Pre-departure briefings are being conducted for the selected workers’ families in locations such as Suva, Nadi, and Labasa. These briefings are designed to prepare families for life in Australia, covering crucial topics such as cultural integration, financial literacy, healthcare and emergency preparedness, as well as parenting rights and responsibilities.
Once in Australia, these families will benefit from various government assistance programs, including the Family Tax Benefit and Childcare Subsidy. Partners of PALM workers will also have the opportunity to work in Australia, while their children will have access to education, enhancing the overall quality of life for these families.
This initiative not only improves the livelihood of the participants, but it also symbolizes a significant step towards fostering stronger ties between Fiji and Australia. It highlights Australia’s commitment to supporting migrant families and ensuring their smooth transition into a new country.
Overall, the Family Accompaniment Pilot is a hopeful addition to the PALM scheme, promoting family unity and better opportunities for those capturing the chance to contribute to Australia’s workforce while supporting their loved ones.
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