Fiji’s Government Addresses Dated Video on PALM Workers’ Treatment: What You Need to Know!

The Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations of Fiji is urging the public and those overseas to stop sharing a dated video and ABC report regarding the mistreatment of workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. Minister Agni Deo Singh emphasized that the content is more than eight years old and that the issues raised were previously investigated and resolved by the proper authorities.

Minister Singh reiterated that during the past two years, the Coalition Government has made significant improvements to the welfare and working conditions of PALM workers. He stated, “We are committed to ensuring that every Fijian worker is treated with dignity and respect, and we have implemented several strategies to improve the scheme.” Key among these strategies is the appointment of three Country Liaison Officers (CLOs), whose roles include facilitating communication and providing support for workers.

Additionally, Singh noted that the Ministry maintains ongoing engagement with Australian authorities, namely the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), to enhance the PALM scheme. The Minister also highlighted the effectiveness of annual visits, where they meet with workers and employers to promptly address issues. An upcoming visit is anticipated later this year.

Furthermore, partnerships with organizations like the Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) ensure workers are fully informed of their rights under Australian labor laws, while the Australian Workers Union (AWU) plays a crucial role in enforcing minimum standards among employers.

Singh encouraged anyone with questions about worker treatment under the PALM scheme to reach out to the Ministry directly, emphasizing the need to understand the context and progress made since the outdated video and report were produced.

This proactive stance by the Fijian government demonstrates a strong commitment to improving conditions for Fijian workers abroad and ensuring that they are treated fairly. The concerted efforts reflect a positive trend towards safeguarding workers’ rights and fostering a supportive environment for laborers, instilling hope for continued improvement in the future.