PALM of Success: Apolosi's Investment Pays Off
“I am grateful for achieving my goals and plans that were set.”
Wednesday 30 August 2023 | 19:18
Apolosi Buekilagi in Australia. Photo: Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations
It started as a dream, that one day he could own a house, farm and a car with money saved in his financial pool.
That has turned into a reality for Apolosi Buekilagi, 32, of Nadavacia, Rakiraki who was mobilised as a meatworker under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme in 2019.
Having only completed education at high school level, Mr Buekilagi takes great satisfaction in his accomplishments.
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He was subsequently paid a beginning hourly wage of AUD$19(FJD$27.70) under a three-year contract.
It was later raised to $24 (FJD$34.99) and finally to $28 (FJD$40.82).
His hourly wage grew to AUD$32 (FJD$46.65) before he returned to Fiji.
He said that achieving promotions and wage increases required a lot of effort and a desire to go above and beyond.
“During my three-year deployment, all my needs were met,” he said.
“I am grateful for achieving my goals and plans that were set.”
Apolosi Buekilagi’s new home, new truck and start-off livestock. Photos: Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations
“I wish to express my sincere appreciation to my employer, for recognising my efforts and for considering me for pay increases. I am grateful that I was able to save more than expected in comparison to earnings in Fiji,” he said.
“Regular contact back home with my parents gave me a sense of relief and motivated me to continue to do my best and achieve my goals.”
Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations permanent secretary Maritino Nemani said the PALM scheme was a way of lifting the standards of living for workers and their families as well as assistance towards community development.
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