The Fijian Ministry of Employment has implemented a new policy prohibiting couples from participating together in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. This decision follows a study conducted in partnership with UNICEF, which revealed that extended separations can harm family relationships and children’s welfare.
Maretino Nemani, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Employment, stated that the recruitment procedures have been adjusted, allowing only one partner of a couple to work overseas if they are both unemployed. “Previously, both members of a couple could be sent abroad if they were unemployed,” Nemani explained. “But now, only one partner will be permitted to go, leaving children in the care of guardians or relatives.”
This policy change aims to minimize the number of children left without parental supervision during the parents’ absences. Nemani emphasized the ministry’s commitment to supporting workers abroad, noting the presence of country liaison officers in Australia. Currently, there are three such officers, with plans to add a fourth, who provide around-the-clock assistance, counseling, and support to workers.
The ministry is also enhancing its financial literacy programs to equip workers with effective money management skills while they are abroad, ensuring they can send adequate financial support back home. “The notion around savings is very, very important for Australia,” Nemani added, emphasizing the importance of achieving financial goals.