400 Fijian workers leave PALM Scheme as Govt warns of future impact

The Government has warned Fijian workers engaged in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme against absconding, saying it could threaten future employment opportunities for thousands of Fijians.

Around 400 Fijian workers have disengaged from the PALM Scheme, according to the permanent secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Jone Maritino Nemani.

Mr Nemani said while the majority of Fijian workers overseas continued to perform well, a small number leaving approved employment without authorisation was creating challenges for the programme.

He said workers under the PALM Scheme represented not only themselves but also Fiji’s reputation internationally.

"Every worker selected under the PALM Scheme carries not only their own future, but the reputation of Fiji and the opportunities available to thousands of other Fijians seeking overseas employment," Mr Nemani said.

"When you travel under the PALM Scheme, you become an ambassador for Fiji. You are expected to conduct yourself with integrity, professionalism and respect, while complying with all Australian laws, your visa conditions and the terms of your employment."

Mr Nemani said some workers voluntarily left employment without following the required processes, while others had genuine workplace concerns requiring intervention.

He said the Ministry had worked with Australian authorities and employers to support workers who were treated unfairly, resulting in more than 200 workers being successfully re-engaged.

"Where workers have been treated unfairly, we have worked with our Australian counterparts to ensure they receive a fair outcome. However, workers who commit serious offences or serious breaches of the programme cannot be re-engaged."

Mr Nemani said labour mobility depended on trust between governments, employers and workers.

"While most PALM workers continue to represent Fiji with distinction, the actions of a small number who choose to abscond can undermine years of trust built between Fiji, Australia and participating employers," Mr Nemani said.

He warned that when workers abscond, receiving countries may introduce stricter compliance measures, increasing scrutiny for future applicants.

"When workers abscond, receiving countries are naturally forced to strengthen compliance measures, increase scrutiny and introduce more stringent requirements. Ultimately, this makes it harder for future Fijian workers to access these life-changing opportunities."

He encouraged workers facing workplace difficulties to seek help from Fiji’s Community Liaison Officers or relevant Australian authorities rather than leaving employment.

The PALM Scheme continues to provide employment, skills development and income opportunities for thousands of Fijian families.

"The PALM Scheme is built on trust. Every worker who fulfils their obligations strengthens Fiji's reputation and helps create opportunities for others. Every worker who absconds risks closing doors for future generations."