Fijian workers heading overseas for employment have been cautioned against engaging in illegal cash work or violating their employment contracts. Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, issued this warning during a farewell ceremony for 90 Fijian workers set to travel to Australia under the country’s labour mobility scheme.
Singh emphasized that participating in unapproved cash-in-hand work could lead to immediate repatriation, loss of income, and permanent exclusion from overseas employment programs. He underscored the importance of adhering to approved employment arrangements, stating that abandoning these agreements could put workers at significant risk.
The minister also raised concerns regarding safety, pointing out that those who stray from the scheme would lose protection under workplace insurance and labour laws, leaving them vulnerable in cases of accidents, injuries, or workplace disputes. “Once you are outside the scheme, you are no longer covered,” he noted.
Singh referred to past incidents where poor decision-making resulted in lost opportunities for Fijian workers. He reminded them that Australian law grants equal rights and protections to all employees, including foreign workers, as long as they stay within the sanctioned employment framework and respect their contractual obligations.
The government also encouraged workers to reach out through official channels if they encounter difficulties, highlighting the presence of country liaison officers in Australia available to offer guidance and support. Workers were advised to maintain discipline, safeguard their reputations, and recognize that their actions abroad not only impact their futures but also the prospects of other Fijians seeking employment opportunities overseas.
This initiative aims to foster a responsible approach to international work, ensuring that Fijian citizens can maximize their opportunities while protecting their rights and livelihoods abroad.
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