After being laid off from her previous employment in Austral-ia because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Elenoa Navuni is back again thanks to the Pacific Labour Scheme.

The 35-year-old was working at the Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa in Western Australian for just over a year when the pandemic struck.

She was forced to return in March last year when the borders closed.

Ms Navuni initially secured her employment there through the Pacific Labour Scheme.

Now the same initiative is giving her and 161 others another fresh start.

Land today in Australia

The contingent lands in Australia today after being farewelled by officials and stakeholders in the past week.

“I never expected such an opportunity like this, especially when borders are closed and travelling to other countries were restricted,” she said.

“It was a tough moment for us knowing that our work was the major source of income and revenue for our families.”

Ms Navuni’s husband is a carpenter in Nadi. They were living with their extended family and wanted to move out with her husband to start a life of their own.

Now with this second chance, she said they would be able to realise it.

“To be among the chosen is such a privilege and we thank the Fijian Government and also the Australian Government for such a partnership that is benefitting so many Fijians.”

With the three-year opportunity in Land Downunder, she hopes to support her husband’s wish to start up a carpentry business.

Another successful recipient and a laid off worker from the hospitality industry Sereana Komainavoka said she was grateful and blessed to be part of the team leaving Fiji today.

“We are thankful,” Ms Komainavoka said.

“The past year has not been an easy one and we are grateful to be given another opportunity to find employment and be able to assist our families back in Fiji.”

They will work in the hospitality and meat workers industries.

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Parveen Bala said: “Your performance and behaviour are the key opening for other opportunities in the future.”

He urged the workers to maintain good discipline and behaviour at all times.

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