The registration of new applicants for the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program and the New Zealand Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) work schemes in Fiji will remain suspended until further notice. This announcement comes from the National Employment Centre (NEC) under the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, which cited a considerable backlog of pending applications that continue to be processed.

Permanent Secretary of Employment, Maritino Nemani, stated that although the suspension was anticipated to be lifted, the NEC is still addressing the backlog, which currently stands at around 35,000 applications. This situation arose after the suspension was initially imposed in December of last year, well before the originally expected resumption date in July.

Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh previously addressed Parliament regarding these challenges, highlighting that approximately 6,669 Fijian workers have gone through the seasonal worker program in Australia since its inception, with about 5,000 still overseas. Additionally, around 700 Fijian workers are currently in New Zealand, with more expected to join soon.

In light of these ongoing issues, Nemani expressed the ministry’s commitment to resume new registrations efficiently. He emphasized the significance of labor mobility programs for the Fijian community and underscored the government’s dedication to supporting existing applicants.

This continued suspension not only reflects the ministry’s responsibility to process current applications fairly but also indicates a proactive effort to maintain the integrity of the labor mobility schemes. Despite the temporary challenges, hopes remain high for a smoother and more efficient registration process in the future. Ultimately, this concerted effort aims to eventually benefit the Fijian workforce and their families through better access to overseas job opportunities.