Fijian workers facing difficulties while employed overseas under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme are urged to seek assistance rather than disengage from their employment arrangements.
The call comes as the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations works to establish contact with a Fijian national reported to be living in vulnerable circumstances in Sydney after leaving his approved employment placement.
The ministry confirmed the worker travelled to Australia in 2023 for employment in the meat processing sector in Tamworth, New South Wales, before disengaging from the scheme in 2024.
Permanent secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Maritino Nemani said workers encountering personal, family, financial or social challenges abroad should make use of the support services available to them.
“We recognise that challenges can arise while workers are overseas. However, disengagement from employment is not the answer,” Mr Nemani said.
He said established support mechanisms included country liaison officers, employer welfare representatives, counselling services and direct engagement with ministry officials.
Mr Nemani said safeguards put in place by the Fijian and Australian governments included welfare interventions, counselling support and, where appropriate, opportunities for redeployment to alternative approved employers.
He said workers who disengage from their employment and cease communication with authorities limit opportunities for assistance and intervention.
The ministry is currently working through its country liaison officers in Australia to locate and assess what support can be provided to the worker.
It also encouraged members of the public and Fijian communities abroad to report concerns involving vulnerable workers so timely assistance can be provided.
