Homeless PALM worker case prompts warning against leaving approved jobs

Disengaging from approved employment arrangements is not the answer to challenges faced by Fijian workers overseas, the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations says, as it works to assist a PALM worker reportedly living homeless in Australia.

The Ministry's response follows viral social media posts and media reports concerning a Fijian national living in vulnerable circumstances in Sydney after leaving his approved employment under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme.

The Ministry confirmed the worker was mobilised to Australia in 2023 for employment in the meat processing sector in Tamworth, New South Wales, before disengaging from his approved employment arrangement in 2024.

Country Liaison Officers in Australia are now attempting to establish contact with the worker and assess what assistance may be available.

Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Jone Maritino Nemani said the situation highlighted the importance of workers remaining connected to the support systems available under the PALM Scheme.

"Participation in the PALM Scheme is both an opportunity and a responsibility. Workers are selected through a competitive process and are expected to maintain satisfactory work performance, comply with workplace requirements, and uphold the values and reputation of Fiji while employed overseas," Mr Nemani said.

He said workers may face personal, family, financial or social challenges while abroad, but leaving approved employment arrangements should not be viewed as a solution.

"We recognise that challenges can arise while workers are overseas. However, disengagement from employment is not the answer. The ministry has established clear avenues of support, including country liaison officers, employer welfare representatives, counselling services and direct engagement with ministry officials. Workers experiencing difficulties should seek assistance early and utilise these support mechanisms."

Mr Nemani said significant safeguards had been established by both the Fijian and Australian governments to assist workers facing difficulties overseas.

"There are mechanisms available to support workers when issues arise, including welfare interventions, counselling support and, where appropriate, redeployment opportunities to alternative approved employers. Workers are strongly encouraged to engage with these processes rather than disengage from the programme."

The Ministry provides PALM workers with pre-departure training, ongoing welfare support and access to dedicated Country Liaison Officers. It also works closely with Australian authorities, approved employers and community partners, including Empower Pacific and faith-based organisations.

Mr Nemani said Ministry officials conduct welfare visits to PALM and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers in Australia and New Zealand twice each year.

"The Ministry undertakes welfare visits to PALM and RSE workers in Australia and New Zealand twice each year. These visits allow us to engage directly with workers, hear their concerns, assess their wellbeing and ensure they remain aware of the support available to them. This reflects our commitment to looking after our citizens wherever they may be working."

He said opportunities for intervention became limited when workers disconnected from authorities and support networks.

"When workers disengage from their employment, cease communication with authorities or fail to seek assistance, opportunities for intervention and support become significantly limited. Staying connected is critical to ensuring workers receive the help they need."

Mr Nemani acknowledged that the overwhelming majority of Fijian workers in the PALM Scheme continued to perform well and represent Fiji positively overseas.

"Thousands of Fijian workers are successfully supporting their families, contributing to their communities and serving as positive ambassadors for Fiji abroad. Their success reflects the values of hard work, responsibility and accountability that underpin the PALM Scheme."

The Ministry is urging members of the public and Fijian communities abroad to report concerns involving vulnerable workers so timely assistance can be provided.