The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations in Fiji, Agni Deo Singh, met with Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald in Suva to reiterate both governments’ commitment to improving the work rights and welfare of Fijian workers involved in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Program.
The meeting primarily aimed to bolster collaboration between Fiji and Australia regarding the PALM Program. During discussions, Singh and McDonald addressed serious allegations related to modern-day slavery, racism, bullying, excessive workloads, unjust terminations, and unsafe working conditions impacting workers under the PALM Program.
Minister Singh emphasized the importance of strengthening mechanisms for compliance to protect workers’ rights. In response to recent media reports, Fiji’s Country Liaison Officer (CLO) and the Department of Workplace Relations (DEWR) are actively investigating the claims, with full backing from the Australian High Commission. The High Commissioner confirmed that the investigative team would be present at the workplace this weekend.
Further, Singh suggested engaging an additional CLO to be stationed in Queensland, Australia, and increasing travel allowances for current CLOs to help address workers’ grievances, particularly for those situated in remote areas of Australia.
The significance of maintaining direct communication with the DEWR through desk officers was also discussed, alongside an acknowledgment of the Fair Work Ombudsman for its role in upholding fair treatment and adherence to workplace standards.
Looking ahead, a ministerial visit to Australia is planned for October 2024 to enhance the labour mobility program for the benefit of Fijian workers and to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for both countries. The High Commission is set to organize a meeting with the new Minister overseeing the DEWR.