Stay focused.

That’s the message the Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum gave to the 172 Fijians, who departed for Australia under the Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme.

The group went onboard a Fiji Airways chartered flight yesterday.

In Australia, they will undergo the 14-day quarantine financed by their employers.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum urged them to enjoy, work hard, upskill and be responsible.

“Some of them (those who have undergone scheme) got tempted by the bright lights and various other ways you may call temptations,” he said.

“Please remember your families back here in Fiji.

“Even if you are single, you do have an opportunity to be able to make yourself a better life.

“You also will, along the way, pick up various skill sets that you may not necessarily have the ability to learn in Fiji.

“You know you’re building your own career, you’re building your own profession so be aware of that.

“There are certain protocols you’ll have to follow over there too. I at least urge you to follow them. Every country in the world today has its own set of protocols, all set of circumstances.”

Australian High Commissioner John Feakes said: “Fijian workers are highly valued by Australian employers.

“This recognises the special relationship between Australian and Pacific including Fiji.”

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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