The Employment Ministry of Fiji has called on the public and those abroad to refrain from sharing outdated content concerning the treatment of Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) workers. Minister Agni Deo Singh emphasized that the circulated video and ABC report are over eight years old and that the issues depicted have been thoroughly investigated and resolved by the relevant authorities.
Singh noted that under the Coalition Government’s leadership over the past two years, significant strides have been made to enhance the welfare and working conditions of PALM workers. The Ministry is committed to ensuring that Fijian workers are treated with dignity and respect. To this end, several initiatives have been implemented, including the appointment of three Country Liaison Officers tasked with providing pastoral support and facilitating effective communication for workers.
The Ministry has actively collaborated with the Australian government to strengthen the PALM scheme, involving regular engagement with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Singh highlighted the effectiveness of annual ministerial visits to Australia, which are aimed at addressing workers’ concerns directly. Another visit is scheduled for later this year, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to improving conditions for Fijian workers in Australia.
This approach reflects a positive trend towards safeguarding the rights and welfare of workers in the PALM program, ensuring their needs are met and their voices are heard. The proactive measures being adopted by the Fijian government signal a hopeful outlook for the labor experience of their citizens abroad, as they continue to strive for equal treatment and better working conditions in collaboration with Australian authorities.
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