The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations has confirmed that the final round of compensation payments for workers and dependents affected by the historic Vatukoula strike will be disbursed during the week of 18 August 2025.
Permanent Secretary Maritino Nemani said this second and final payout reflects the Coalition Government’s continued commitment to honouring those impacted by the long-standing industrial dispute.
A total of 164 surviving recipients will each receive a final payment of $15,000. Additionally, 18 verified dependents of deceased workers will also receive $15,000.
However, eight eligible recipients who have passed away recently will not be included in this payout until their families complete the required probate process.
“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.
He added that several probate applications are currently being processed, and the Ministry is working to ensure swift disbursement once legal formalities are completed.
This marks the final step in delivering on the Government’s promise to acknowledge and compensate those affected by one of Fiji’s most significant labour disputes.
A total of 190 workers and their dependents received their first compensation payment of $10,000 in the previous financial year. This included 164 confirmed living recipients as well as 18 dependents of deceased workers.
Sadly, since the initial disbursement, eight members have passed away after receiving their first payment.