From Sawana To Aust- Ofa A Happy Man
Mr Ofa will be among 184 Fijians, who will leave the country on January 6, next year, as part of the Fijian and Australian government Pacific Labour Scheme programme.
Thursday 24 December 2020 | 22:12
From left to right: HEADING FOR AUSTRALIA... 184 Fijians will leave in January for a three-year work term under the Fijian and Australian Government Pacific Labour Scheme programme. Photo: Ronald Kumar and Sereki Ofa (right).
Sereki Ofa, 41, never dreamt that an opportunity to work in Australia would reach his doorstep in Sawana Village, Vanuabalavu, Lau.
When the opportunity opened for the father of three, he grabbed it with both hands.
Mr Ofa will be among 184 Fijians, who will leave the country on January 6, next year, as part of the Fijian and Australian government Pacific Labour Scheme programme.
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“I heard about the scheme from a relative, who came to the island a year ago and I had filled my forms and gathered the necessary details that was required of me straight away,” Mr Ofa said.
“Just a few months later, I was surprised that I was told to come over to Suva to attend the pre-departure orientation that was needed to be done before we leave the country.
“I arranged everything from the village and I left the island a happy man.”
Sereki Ofa.
Attitude
“Overall attitude is important, and all Fijian workers must maintain discipline,” he said.
Mr Bala told workers they must demonstrate 100 per cent attendance.
“You need to refrain from drinking alcohol and kava, as this can affect your work performance and lead to behaviours such as fights and harrassment,” he said.
Mr Bala said the use of drugs would lead to the termination of contract for the workers.
“This is an opportunity for the benefit of your families and for you to perform to the best of your abilities,” he said.
“If any of you face any issue, you need to inform the National Employment centre.”
Workers will need to comply with the 14 days quarantine procedures upon arrival in Australia.
“You have an important role for the engagement of other potential Fijian workers,” Mr Bala said.
He urged the workers to take the advice that was given to them during the four day pre-departure orientation programme.
Financial respite
Meanwhile, 25-year-old, Maika Vasu, of Nadogo village in Labasa, said the Pacific Labour Scheme provided him an opening for financial assistance to his family.
The workers will depart forAustralia on January 6, 2021.
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