A family in Tau Village, Nadroga, has had to cancel plans for a 50th birthday celebration for their father following the tragic death of their daughter, Christine Lewailagi, 24, in June under suspicious circumstances. Christine was working in Melbourne, Australia, as part of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme.
Her parents, Sairusi Nadiligo and Sainimere Tabua, are desperately seeking answers regarding the circumstances of her death. “We are searching for answers and seeking justice for her death,” a tearful Ms. Tabua expressed during an interview.
Christine, who left Fiji in May 2022 to support her family financially, worked as a slaughterhouse assistant for the Midfield Meat Group in Victoria under a Visa 403. Ms. Tabua alleges her daughter experienced “systemic abuse and modern-day slavery” during her employment. Christine frequently shared her feelings of mistreatment, mentioning the overwhelming nature of her job, where she was responsible for managing around 5,000 to 6,000 sheep at a time without adequate support.
A close family friend, Ross Johnston from Australia, described her passing as indicative of “modern-day slavery.” He noted that many workers in these schemes are too intimidated to voice their grievances due to fear of losing their jobs. Johnston recounted his interactions with Christine, who visited him during her weekends for a brief respite from her demanding and harsh work conditions.
On June 17, the Australian Department of Employment reported that Christine had suffered from headaches and was hospitalized for evaluation. Following her transfer to Austin Hospital in Melbourne, she underwent two surgeries for a brain tumor but ultimately remained on life support, with her prognosis uncertain. The Fiji Ministry for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations is examining the employment conditions echoed on social media concerning this tragic case.
Minister Agni Deo Singh mentioned that the Fiji government plans to visit PALM workers next month to address various issues such as racism, bullying, and unsafe working practices. He confirmed the ministry’s awareness of Christine’s case and emphasized the need for increased oversight and compliance with fair labor practices.
Christine’s death certificate indicated she died from meningioma, which is a tumor affecting the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Vani Catanasiga, the executive director of the Fiji Council of Social Services, called for better monitoring of workers under the Vuvale partnership, criticizing authorities in both Fiji and Australia for failing to protect the rights and welfare of these workers.
The Australian High Commission in Suva has acknowledged awareness of the allegations concerning Ms. Lewailagi and pledged to take them seriously, assuring that prompt investigations would be conducted.