Australia’s policies regarding Pacific seasonal workers and immigration are expected to undergo significant shifts if Peter Dutton and the Coalition party take office on May 3rd. Promises have been made to reintroduce a dedicated agriculture visa and possibly eliminate the current minimum weekly hours requirement for visiting Pacific workers, which is set at 30 hours.
The Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), which allows up to 3,000 permanent residency placements annually through a lottery-style system, has seen overwhelming interest, generating over 56,000 applications during its initial round. However, uncertainty remains about the Coalition’s commitment to maintaining the PEV, which was initially proposed by the Labor party.
Support for the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) system has also been reiterated by the Coalition, highlighting its importance in various sectors such as agriculture and tourism. When functioning optimally, PALM is viewed as a beneficial initiative for both industries and Pacific nations through remittances. Yet, concerns over employer compliance with pay and accommodation obligations have prompted reforms under the current Labor administration, which include enhancing wage parity for Pacific workers.
The Coalition has pledged to review PALM, which currently serves over 30,000 workers across multiple industries nationwide. Dutton has previously criticized Labor’s 30-hour commitment for seasonal workers, linking it to heightened inflation concerns affecting food prices.
On the foreign aid front, the Coalition has yet to communicate specific funding plans for the Pacific region, leading to apprehensions of possible cuts. Experts warn that reducing aid could inadvertently increase China’s influence in these strategically vital islands. There is a bipartisan acknowledgment regarding the importance of substantial support to the Pacific, as both parties recognize that neglecting this could open the door to heightened Chinese involvement.
The geopolitical landscape in the Pacific remains complex and influenced by growing Chinese presence. As Australia looks to strengthen its partnerships in the region, the upcoming electoral decisions could significantly alter its foreign policy trajectory.
These developments present both challenges and opportunities. There is hope that Australia can foster constructive relationships with Pacific nations, further enhancing cooperation in areas like climate change and economic stability. By focusing on mutual needs and addressing the threats posed by external influences, Australia may reinforce its commitment to the region while nurturing vital ties that benefit both parties involved.
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