Today, Australian Government representatives have met with Fiji's Minister for Employment Productivity and Workplace Relations the Hon Agni Deo Singh, and a delegation of Fijian officials, reaffirming the strong partnership between Pacific neighbours.
Minister Singh and Minister Watt met in Brisbane, following visits by the Fiji delegation to sites around Australia where Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme workers are employed.
Fijian citizens participating in the PALM scheme contribute significantly to businesses and communities in rural and regional Australia.
The PALM Scheme continues to deliver significant economic and social benefits for both countries, with the latest data showing almost 6000 Fijian workers were employed under the scheme in August alone. PALM scheme workers in Australia send home, on average, $1,500 each per month.
The meeting was held on the one-year anniversary of Australia and Fiji's renewed Vuvale Partnership.
"The PALM scheme is central to our Vuvale Partnership, and both countries today spoke of the employment opportunities and mutual benefits available through the scheme, as well as the importance of protections for workers," Minister Watt said.
"Since coming to Government, we have invested $440 million to expand and improve the PALM scheme including to better protect and support workers while in Australia. This included strengthening scheme settings including pay, accommodation and worker welfare and wellbeing.
"We are both in steadfast agreement that the PALM scheme is highly valued by both nations and that no worker should feel unsafe or be subject to exploitation.
"We are committed to working closely with Fiji and other Pacific countries to examine any concerns raised surrounding the treatment of PALM scheme workers by non-compliant employers.
"Australia and Fiji have a strong, collaborative relationship, and I'm pleased to continue to work together on a range of matters."
The Fijian delegation included:
- The Hon Agni Deo Singh, Minister for Employment Productivity and Workplace Relations (MEPWR)
- H.E. Ajay Amrit, Fiji High Commissioner to Australia
- Mr J. Maritino (Tino) Nemani, Permanent Secretary for Employment Productivity and Workplace Relations
- Ms Elina Adi, Senior Media Liaison Officer - MEPWR
- Mr Mataiaski Daulako, Acting Manager (Member Education & Advocacy) - Fiji Provident Fund.
