Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh has clarified that reports of hospitalization and fatalities among PALM workers are linked to alcohol use rather than conditions at their workplaces. “There is nothing rising,” Singh noted regarding the recent deaths. He emphasized that the incidents involving PALM scheme workers who were admitted to hospitals, including one death, were related to alcohol consumption. “It is nothing related to the work, but indeed it is very unfortunate,” he added.
In a previous announcement, the government, through the Ministry of Employment, indicated plans to visit PALM workers in Australia in October. This visit aims to address various complaints that the workers have reportedly faced, such as racism, bullying, excessive workload, exploitation, threats, unsafe practices, unjust termination, and forced labor.
The ministry will work closely with its Australian counterparts, employers, and the workers themselves to discuss and resolve these concerns. To improve oversight and ensure compliance with fair labor practices, the ministry intends to partner with Australian authorities and employers. This collaboration will involve regular workplace inspections, audits, and a strict no-tolerance policy against exploitation and mistreatment.
Additionally, the Australian Workers Union (AWU) has expressed its commitment to maintaining minimum standards during these inspections. The Employment Ministry has also stated that it will continue to bolster its partnerships with Australian agencies, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR).