The Australian Government is prioritizing the wellbeing of individuals participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. However, many PALM participants continue to encounter significant challenges in accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and information, particularly support for victims of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
Based on the experiences of researchers, service providers, and educators, a recent analysis highlights important issues related to the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of PALM participants in Australia, along with five suggested actions for improvement.
One key issue is that, in many PALM sending countries, SRHR is often a sensitive and taboo topic, influenced by various cultural, social, and religious norms. Upon arriving in Australia, PALM participants can face multiple barriers affecting their access to necessary SRH services. Factors such as lack of information, stigma, fear of judgment, limited digital literacy, concerns about costs, language barriers, and issues surrounding confidentiality when utilizing translators can complicate access to these vital health services. Additionally, geographical and social isolation, coupled with cultural hurdles, exacerbate these difficulties.
Many PALM participants struggle to identify which SRH services are included under their health insurance or which providers offer free or subsidized care. For instance, the coverage for pregnancy termination is often unclear, resulting in varied experiences among participants regarding cost and care when seeking abortion services. Furthermore, there are inconsistencies in insurance coverage for pregnancy and childbirth, with some participants having full coverage for prenatal and delivery care while others incur significant expenses.
Power disparities within the PALM scheme, including reliance on approved employers for participant welfare, can place participants in vulnerable situations. Without independent support systems, PALM individuals may feel compelled to share sensitive details, such as their pregnancy status, with their employers. Those who experience SGBV may be reluctant to report incidents or seek assistance due to uncertainties about their visa status or risks to their safety and privacy.
The physical, emotional, and financial implications of these challenges are evident among PALM participants. Unintended pregnancies, including those resulting from sexual assault, have led some women to make difficult decisions, sometimes opting to conceal their pregnancies to avoid job loss. Many women face condemnation from their families and communities due to their circumstances and find themselves at a loss for support. When they do pursue pregnancy and abortion care, they often encounter exorbitant medical fees, which can lead to significant financial strain.
In light of these issues, several recommendations are proposed for the Australian Government.
First, engaging Pacific civil society organizations to provide standardized, comprehensive SRHR information before participants depart could significantly aid in addressing these concerns. The International Planned Parenthood Federation has member associations in several PALM sending countries that already conduct pre-departure briefings and SRH screenings.
Second, Australian health providers and organizations should expand educational programming to offer culturally relevant SRHR information specifically for PALM participants. Initiatives like True Relationships and Reproductive Health’s bilingual education sessions, which have reached over 1,500 participants across various states, indicate the potential for greater outreach.
Third, PALM-approved employers should be better equipped to support their employees’ SRHR needs, including offering training and standardized resources to facilitate improved service access.
Fourth, it’s essential to provide PALM participants with clear, up-to-date information about available SRH services and insurance coverage while in Australia. Such information should clearly outline which services are covered under their health insurance, including provisions for sexual health, pregnancy, and childbirth.
Finally, enhancing protection mechanisms and ensuring confidentiality for PALM participants is crucial. An independent reporting channel for SGBV, sexual harassment, or exploitation can empower participants to seek help without fear. Additionally, increasing the involvement of Pacific Islander women in support roles can further strengthen these initiatives.
The importance of sexual and reproductive health and rights for the overall wellbeing of PALM participants has been emphasized by Australia’s Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Tony Burke. The framework for action is clear, and the government has the opportunity to implement these changes effectively.
This topic will be further discussed at the upcoming Pacific Migration Workshop hosted by the Development Policy Centre.