Over 20,000 PALM applications yet to be processed

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo has confirmed that more than 20,000 Fijians are still waiting for their Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme applications to be processed.  

Mr Singh confirmed that despite the huge backlog, the scheme will reopen this Friday with around 800 spaces available.

These include 300 aged care workers, 100 drivers with specific licenses, 100 to work on the Halal meat workers, and 300 referrals from approved employers. 

“We still have about 20,000 applications yet to be processed.

“We are only opening up for sectors where there is a shortage,” Mr Singh said.

He explained that many of the pending applications date back to 2022. 

The Minister stressed that while the demand for overseas work remains high, the government is determined to manage the process carefully.

“The scheme itself is working very well, and our remittances are good,” he said. 

To provide better support for workers abroad, the government has appointed three liaison officers in Australia and is in the process of appointing a fourth.

“When we came in, there were no liaison officers. Now workers have direct numbers they can call whenever challenges arise,” Mr Singh added. 

He also noted that conditions for Fijian workers in Australia have improved over the past two and a half years due to regular consultations with employers, trade unions, and Australian counterparts. 

Mr Singh acknowledged the growing concerns about workers resigning from local jobs to join the scheme but stressed that the government is not encouraging skilled or employed workers to apply.

Instead, unemployed Fijians, particularly those from rural and remote communities, remain the priority. 

“This program is about uplifting families and communities. It must benefit those who need it most,” he said. 

Feedback: rariqi.turner@fijisun.com.fj