Measures are being set up to alleviate problems faced by Fijians working in Australia and New Zealand under labour mobility schemes.
Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh told Parliament this week that Fiji’s labour mobility programs played a crucial role in the nation’s economic recovery efforts, which came in the form of remittances from Fijian workers abroad.
He said about 4072 Fijians had participated in labour mobility programs under bilateral arrangements with both Australia and New Zealand last year.
Mr Singh said remittances were likely to cross the $1.2 billion mark by the end of this year, which he stated was significant in relation to strengthening labour mobility programs.
For this purpose, the ministry would engage another five project officers to assist Fiji’s foreign employment service under the National Employment Centre (NEC).
He said the allocation of $250,000 to recruit an additional liaison officer, and setting up a toll-free line in Australia, was a testament to the Coalition Government’s commitment in ensuring the welfare of workers, while they were abroad, was fully attended to.
“I had earlier stated in this August House that the Australian Government had allocated $100,000 in 2021 for us to appoint a liaison officer,” he said.
“This was procrastinated until I took office and was advised by the staff.
“I immediately initiated the due process and I am happy to report that the incumbent should report to work in the next few weeks. This should have been done in 2021.”
