About 20,000 Fijians are on waiting list for employment opportunities in Australia through the Pacific Labor Mobility scheme (PALM).

It could take years for the applications to be processed even though demand was high for all skill sets, said Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh.

“We must backlog,” Mr Singh said.

A National Employment Centre (NEC) representative, who participated at a recent talanoa session, said the centre often receive 200 applications daily.

“Every trade and professions are in demand there,” Mr Singh said.

“We will continue to process them as demand comes in and see how it goes.”

Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru. Photo: Parliament of the Republic of Fiji

PALM has sent more than 6000 Fijians to Australia through the programme, which caused skills shortage locally.

Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, said youths would only be trained for the local market.

“This is to fill the skills gap we have,” he said.

He clarified any training provided by the ministry did not limit their opportunities to find work overseas, but more chances in the local market.

The ministry has found employment for more than 50 youths, most of whom were in the construction industry.

“We are focused on filling the gaps here,” Mr Saukuru said.

Feedback: josefa.babitu@fijisun.com.fj