Monika Adimaikama, a 30-year-old mother, expressed her deep sense of gratitude and excitement as she prepares to join her husband, Dermot, in Australia alongside 106 other families under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. With her one-month-old daughter, Rose Maria Waqamate, by her side, Monika reflected on the emotional rollercoaster she has experienced while waiting for this moment.
The PALM scheme, established by the Australian government, permits families of Fijian workers to reunite with their spouses employed in Australia. Monika’s journey has not been without its challenges. She previously resided in Australia on a tourist visa, but upon learning that she needed to return to Fiji to apply for a partner visa, she made the difficult decision to come back home.
Now, with the Family Accompaniment Visa program, Monika and the other families are set to embark on what they call a life-changing journey. Monika expressed her excitement about being able to support her family in Fiji while providing her daughter with the opportunity to grow up surrounded by both parents. She emphasized the importance of family unity and extended heartfelt thanks to the Australian government for making this reunion possible.
This initiative not only allows families to come together but also symbolizes hope and new beginnings for many Fijian workers and their loved ones. Monika’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the joy of family reunification.
In summary, the efforts under the PALM scheme are paving the way for meaningful connections, enriching the lives of families who have faced hardship in their separation. The upcoming reunions bring a message of hope and love, reinforcing the significance of family bonds, especially during the holiday season.
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