The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, confirmed that authorities are aware of a recent case involving a former Pacific Australian Labour Mobility (PALM) worker who died in June. The victim had traveled from Fiji to work for Midfield Meat Group in Victoria in May 2022.
Singh noted that on June 17, 2024, the ministry received a notification from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) regarding the incident. The report indicated that the worker experienced a headache a week prior and was subsequently taken to the hospital for evaluation. She was later moved to Austin Hospital in Melbourne for further treatment, where she underwent two surgeries for a brain tumor.
Tragically, the report revealed that she was on life support and was not expected to recover. She passed away on June 19, 2024, and her remains were repatriated to Fiji on July 6 for burial.
Singh expressed concern over the employment conditions raised on social media and stated that the Country Liaison Officer (CLO) based in Victoria is addressing these issues. The CLO, along with DEWR, will investigate the claims made by the Fijian workers to ensure their welfare and rights are upheld.
Additionally, the Fiji Government, through the Employment Ministry, is planning to visit PALM workers in October to meet with Australian stakeholders, including employers and Fijian workers, to discuss reports of issues such as racism, bullying, excessive workloads, exploitation, threats, hazardous practices, unjust termination, and forced labor.
Singh emphasized the importance of collaborating with Australian authorities and employers to enhance oversight and ensure compliance with fair labor practices. This will include regular workplace inspections and a strict stance against any form of exploitation or mistreatment.
Furthermore, the Australian Workers Union (AWU), during a recent Labour Mobility Stakeholder Engagement Workshop held in Suva, promised to support the enforcement of minimum standards by approved employers. As part of the Vuvale partnership agreement, the Employment Ministry is committed to fostering ongoing discussions with its Australian counterparts, specifically the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and DEWR, to address persistent concerns regarding the PALM program.