The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, along with Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald, met in Suva to reaffirm their commitment to enhancing the work rights and welfare of Fijian workers participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Program.
The meeting’s main objective was to strengthen the collaboration between Fiji and Australia concerning the PALM Program. Singh and McDonald engaged in extensive discussions about serious issues such as modern-day slavery, racism, bullying, excessive workloads, unjust termination, and unsafe working conditions related to the program.
Minister Singh underscored the necessity of enhancing mechanisms to ensure compliance with labor standards. In response to recent media reports concerning these issues, Fiji’s Country Liaison Officer (CLO) and the Department of Workplace Relations (DEWR) are currently conducting a thorough investigation with the complete support of the Australian High Commission. The High Commissioner confirmed that the investigative team will be present at the workplaces this weekend.
Furthermore, Singh noted that they discussed the potential engagement of an additional CLO to be stationed in Queensland, Australia, and the option of increasing travel allowances for current CLOs to better address worker grievances, particularly for those in remote areas of Australia.
The importance of direct communication with the DEWR and the establishment of desk officers for immediate contact was also highlighted. Singh expressed appreciation for the role of the Fair Work Ombudsman in ensuring that workplace standards are upheld.
A ministerial visit to Australia is planned for October 2024, aiming to enhance the labor mobility program to benefit Fijian workers and create a mutually advantageous situation for both nations. The High Commission will facilitate a meeting with the new Minister overseeing the DEWR.