More than 10,500 Fijians currently work in Australia, while over 4,600 are employed in New Zealand through Fiji’s labor mobility programs, as stated by Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh during a parliamentary session. These initiatives, established via bilateral agreements with Australia and New Zealand, are primarily focused on unskilled labor and enhancing the welfare of workers abroad.
Minister Singh revealed that since the commencement of these mobility programs, including the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme and the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, labor mobility has significantly boosted Fiji’s remittance contributions. These remittances are key to supporting the economy, which is projected to see a seven percent increase, reaching about $1.4 billion in the coming year.
A notable reform under these programs has been the introduction of Country Liaison Officers (CLOs), tasked with providing essential pastoral care and ensuring that the interests of Fijian workers are represented abroad. Singh acknowledged that the government had not utilized available funding for a CLO until recently, leading to a commitment to have a total of four officers funded equally by both Fiji and Australia.
Additionally, the Ministry of Employment has filled numerous staffing vacancies, enhancing service delivery for workers both locally and internationally. This progress underscores ongoing governmental efforts to strengthen labor mobility while safeguarding the rights and welfare of Fijian workers.
The proactive measures, including the support from both the Australian and New Zealand governments, reflect a promising future for Fijian workers, indicating a continuous trajectory towards improved working conditions and the overall economic well-being of families in Fiji. The existing partnerships and reforms suggest a positive outlook, fostering not only jobs but also financial stability for many Fijian households.
Leave a comment