The second and final round of compensation for workers and dependents affected by the historic Vatukoula strike will be rolled out from the week of August 18, 2025.
Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations permanent secretary, Maritino Nemani, confirmed that the landmark settlement ends what was the longest unresolved industrial relations dispute on the International Labour Organization’s record.
“More than 33 years — finally resolved in September 2024 by the Coalition Government led by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka,” he said.
Following the first payout last financial year, the ministry confirmed that 182 workers and dependents will now each receive $15,000.
The first payment saw 190 recipients — 164 living workers and 18 dependents of deceased workers, each received $10,000. Since then, eight members have died.
For this second round, 164 living recipients and 18 dependents will be paid.
The eight deceased members will be excluded until probate is completed, after which their families will receive the payment.
“We strongly encourage families, who have not yet lodged probate applications, to do so immediately to avoid further delays in receiving their payments,” Mr Nemani said.
The ministry said several probate applications were already being processed, and the ministry remained committed to expediting the payments once legal requirements were met.
“This payment marks the completion of the Coalition Government’s commitment to supporting those impacted by this historic industrial dispute.
“The ministry has ensured this process is conducted with fairness, transparency, and urgency throughout.
The resolution of this 33-year dispute demonstrates the Coalition Government’s dedication to addressing this long-standing workplace relations issue and ensuring justice for affected workers and their families.”