Several former Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme workers were among those identified during a major immigration enforcement operation in Far North Queensland that uncovered unlawful non-citizens and cases of alleged migrant worker exploitation.
The four-day operation, led by the Australian Border Force (ABF) and involving multiple government agencies, carried out 180 immigration status checks across Innisfail, Mareeba, Atherton and Dimbulah.
Authorities identified 25 persons of interest, including 12 unlawful non-citizens. Six were detained for removal from Australia, while six others were issued bridging visas requiring them to either leave the country or regularise their immigration status.
The operation also located four disengaged PALM scheme workers who had left their approved employment arrangements. They have since been referred to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) for support and assistance to re-engage with the scheme.
The findings highlight ongoing concerns about workers who disengage from the PALM program and become vulnerable to exploitation or immigration breaches.
During the operation, officers discovered unlawful non-citizens living and working at a tobacco store, while another property was found to be housing 13 people in unsafe and unsanitary conditions.
Investigators also gathered intelligence on illicit tobacco activities, leading to the closure of a tobacco store by Queensland Health. Further investigations are continuing.
ABF Commander John Taylor said the operation sent a strong message to people who remained in Australia without a valid visa.
“This operation is a sharp reminder that non-citizens without a valid visa should leave Australia immediately or face enforcement action, including detention and removal,” Commander Taylor said.
He said the ABF remained focused on both protecting the Australian community and safeguarding vulnerable workers.
“ABF officers remain focused on protecting the Australian community by identifying and addressing risks posed by non-citizens engaged in unlawful or criminal activity.”
Commander Taylor added that the agency would continue targeting migrant worker exploitation and immigration fraud.
“The Australian Border Force is maintaining the integrity of Australia’s migration system and protecting migrant workers from exploitation through active and coordinated enforcement in Far North Queensland and across the country.”
Authorities said the operation was intelligence-led and drew on information from previous compliance activities, community reports, police data and anonymous tip-offs.
Disengaged PALM workers have been encouraged to contact the PALM Scheme support service and their country liaison officers for assistance in returning to lawful employment arrangements.
