A couple participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme has realized their dream of building a home in Nukubuco Settlement, Suva, showcasing the positive results of commitment and hard work. Alumita Tagilala and her husband, Vuniani Wakaya, have been working in Australia for nearly three years, and their achievements have not gone unnoticed; the Ministry for Employment recently recognized their success in the labor mobility program.
Their journey involved a significant investment of around $45,000 to construct their new home after purchasing the land for $9,000, which included an older house they decided to demolish. Tagilala highlighted their aspirations of owning both a home and a car, and they are now witnessing those dreams coming true.
Reflecting on the experiences of other workers in the PALM scheme, Tagilala noted that many return home with minimal savings. She emphasized the value of focus and teamwork, as her husband regularly communicates their goals of achieving sustainable financial success while he works overseas.
Lui Mario, Director of the National Employment Centre, commended the couple’s accomplishments, viewing them as a testament to the potential benefits of the PALM scheme despite its challenges. He acknowledged Wakaya’s ability to support his family, underscoring that dedication can lead to significant improvements in livelihoods.
This couple’s success is part of a wider trend enhancing families involved in the PALM program, which has been in the spotlight for initiatives aimed at reuniting families while providing better access to education and healthcare for dependents. Notably, the new Family Accompaniment Visa program allows families to join Fijian workers in Australia, emphasizing the importance of family stability for workers and suggesting beneficial outcomes for both families and the Australian labor market.
With ongoing support from programs like PALM, there is optimism for many families striving to enhance their living conditions and attain economic stability, reinforcing strong familial bonds and community ties across nations.
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