The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations says it is working to locate and assist a Fijian national living in vulnerable circumstances in Sydney after disengaging from employment under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme.
The ministry issued a statement following the circulation of a viral video and media reports showing the worker homeless in Australia.
According to the ministry, the worker was deployed to Australia in 2023 for employment in the meat processing sector in Tamworth, New South Wales, before disengaging from his approved employment arrangements in 2024.
The ministry said its Country Liaison Officers in Australia are now attempting to establish contact with the individual and determine what assistance can be provided.
Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Maritino Nemani said the situation highlights the importance of workers remaining connected to support systems available under the PALM Scheme.
“Participation in the PALM Scheme is both an opportunity and a responsibility. Workers are selected through a competitive process and are expected to maintain satisfactory work performance, comply with workplace requirements, and uphold the values and reputation of Fiji while employed overseas.”
Nemani acknowledged that workers can face personal, financial and social challenges while abroad but stressed that abandoning approved employment arrangements was not the solution.
“We recognise that challenges can arise while workers are overseas. However, disengagement from employment is not the answer.”
“The ministry has established clear avenues of support, including country liaison officers, employer welfare representatives, counselling services and direct engagement with ministry officials. Workers experiencing difficulties should seek assistance early and utilise these support mechanisms.”
The ministry said PALM workers receive comprehensive pre-departure training, ongoing welfare support and access to dedicated liaison officers. It also works with Australian authorities, approved employers and community partners, including Empower Pacific and faith-based organisations, to support workers and their families.
Nemani said both Fiji and Australia have established safeguards to assist workers facing difficulties overseas.
“There are mechanisms available to support workers when issues arise, including welfare interventions, counselling support and, where appropriate, redeployment opportunities to alternative approved employers.”
“Workers are strongly encouraged to engage with these processes rather than disengage from the programme.”
He also highlighted the ministry’s ongoing welfare monitoring programme.
“The Ministry undertakes welfare visits to PALM and RSE workers in Australia and New Zealand twice each year. These visits allow us to engage directly with workers, hear their concerns, assess their wellbeing and ensure they remain aware of the support available to them.”
Nemani warned that support becomes more difficult when workers cut ties with authorities and support agencies.
“When workers disengage from their employment, cease communication with authorities or fail to seek assistance, opportunities for intervention and support become significantly limited. Staying connected is critical to ensuring workers receive the help they need.”
Despite the latest case, Nemani said the vast majority of Fijians participating in overseas labour mobility programmes continue to perform well and support their families back home.
“Thousands of Fijian workers are successfully supporting their families, contributing to their communities and serving as positive ambassadors for Fiji abroad.”
“Their success reflects the values of hard work, responsibility and accountability that underpin the PALM Scheme.”
The ministry is encouraging members of the public and Fijian communities overseas to report concerns involving vulnerable workers so assistance can be provided as quickly as possible.
It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting workers facing genuine difficulties while also promoting personal responsibility and compliance with programme requirements.
