Fiji is set to benefit significantly from Australia’s commitment to boost recruitment in the aged care and child care sectors during the second term of the Labour Government. Foreign Affairs Minister Senator Penny Wong confirmed that the government is focused on enhancing the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, which allows Pacific Island people to work in Australia.
Wong emphasized the importance of this initiative for both the growth of the care sectors and for harnessing the valuable skills and wisdom that Pacific Island people bring to these roles. She stated, “This is a growth area, and we value the contributions that Pacific Island people make concerning care.”
As part of the PALM strategy, there are plans to upskill Pacific workers through on-the-job training in Australia, aiming for at least a certificate three level qualification. This training not only equips them for roles in Australia but also provides them with skills they can carry back to their home countries if they choose not to remain long-term.
The PALM Scheme, which is accessible to nine Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste, already includes over 5,000 Fijians benefiting from employment opportunities. Wong noted that the scheme would continue to evolve to better serve Pacific workers and support local economies, ensuring a reciprocal relationship that enriches both Australian and Fijian communities.
Furthermore, this development aligns with previous efforts by the Fijian government to encourage financial prudence among workers abroad and to support their families through initiatives such as the Family Accompaniment Visa program, ensuring families can join workers in Australia. Overall, the enhancements made to the PALM scheme highlight a comprehensive approach to strengthening ties between Fiji and Australia while fostering economic growth and family unity.
The ongoing support for Pacific workers, coupled with educational opportunities, paints a hopeful picture for the future, promising improved livelihoods and better conditions that can lead to a brighter future for Fijians and their families.
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