Fiji received more than $1billion in remittances last year, thanks to labour mobility programs that continue to support families and communities across the country.
Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh told Parliament last week that the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme played a crucial role in household wellbeing.
“Labour mobility programs continue to make a significant contribution to household wellbeing,” Mr Singh said.
“In 2025 alone, over 2000 Fijians participated in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme.
“Remittances from these programs surpassed $1billion, directly supporting families through household expenses, education, housing, healthcare, and small business investment.”
He said the ministry had strengthened the pre-departure preparation, improved in-country support mechanisms, and enhanced integration and reintegration pathways to ensure that skills gained overseas were productively used by returning workers.
He said additional support was provided through international cooperation.
“Through cooperation with our partner governments, four Country Liaison Officers have been appointed in Australia and one in New Zealand, to provide direct assistance to our workers.”
He also highlighted the family accompaniment pilot program, which helped reduce the social strain of separation.
“An important development was the family accompaniment pilot program under the PALM Scheme. Since its introduction in 2024, about 90 families have participated in the program.
“This initiative reduces the social strain of long-term separation, supports families’ wellbeing, and strengthens the overall benefits for Fijian workers and their families.”
