The Fijian government has recently urged 205 selected workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme to prioritize saving their earnings and strictly adhere to their contract durations in Australia. Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh delivered these key messages during a pre-departure briefing in Suva.
At the event, Singh emphasized the importance of financial prudence, advising workers not to send excessive remittances back to Fiji. He highlighted the significance of earning money abroad while also maintaining a balanced approach to savings, stating, “If you’re working here and earning $200 a week, and then you go to Australia and start earning, if you think $200 is enough, just send $200. Don’t send $500.”
Minister Singh reiterated the critical nature of adhering to the terms of their contracts, which stipulate they must return to Fiji after two, three, or four years of employment. He cautioned against any attempts to overstay their welcome in Australia, stressing that the opportunities are designed for a fixed period.
The selected workers, chosen based on good character, physical fitness, and clean records, have completed a rigorous four-day training program, including financial literacy education, to prepare them for their experience abroad. Singh also assured them that Australian labor laws apply equally to them as they do to Australian citizens, ensuring fairness and protection in the workplace.
In previous concerted efforts, the Fijian government has been proactive in enhancing the welfare of its workers abroad, including appointing Country Liaison Officers (CLOs) to assist with any issues. This is part of an overarching strategy to promote better conditions for Fijians working overseas and strategically aligns with the ongoing initiatives under the PALM Scheme to support families through financial stability and job opportunities.
Notably, in similar discussions, the government has highlighted the benefits of skill acquisition for workers, which can lead to enhanced livelihoods for their families upon their return. The introduction of the Family Accompaniment Visa program, which allows families of seasonal workers to join them in Australia, further showcases the positive developments aimed at improving the well-being of workers and fostering unity among migrating families.
The PALM Scheme stands as a hopeful pathway for many Fijians, offering not just immediate employment opportunities but also paving the way for future financial security.
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