“While we appreciate the opportunities provided by the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, it is essential to evaluate its potential impacts on Fiji's domestic labour market.”
This was highlighted by the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Honourable Agni Deo Singh while delivering his address at the Australia Fiji Business Council Forum yesterday (01/09/2023) in Australia.
“Since the inception of the Australian Seasonal Worker Program (SWP) in 2015, and the Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) in 2019, more than 7,500 Fijians had participated under this bilateral arrangement.”
“Under the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Work Scheme in New Zeeland, Fiji has deployed more than 2,700 Fijians to date since its inception in 2015. Overall, more than 10,000 Fijians have participated under the labour mobility schemes both in Australia and New Zealand.
“These figures do not include the departure of trained professionals, such as doctors, nurses, teachers and other trade jobs which falls outside the labour mobility arrangements, which has also strained various domestic sectors, impacting service delivery to our own citizens. Therefore, it becomes crucial for both governments to ensure adequate measures are in place to replenish the skilled workforce and minimize any negative consequences.
Minister Singh added that while this partnership has brought countless benefits and opportunities to both countries, it is essential to regularly evaluate and improve upon the existing labour mobility schemes to ensure maximized benefits for both countries.
The Employment Minister shed light on the Fiji government's perspective on the PALM Scheme and one of the major concerns raised is the loss of skilled workers, creating a brain drain effect including social issues that scars dependents back home; opportunities for skill migration after successfully completing their first mobilization tenure under the scheme to also allow family members to move to Australia; ensuring that the rights and welfare of Fijian workers are protected at all times through developing robust mechanisms to monitor and regulate employment conditions, wages, accommodation and occupational health and safety standards; investing in education and skills development by actively participating in vocational training programs designed to equip Fijian workers with the necessary skills for various sectors; strengthening bilateral agreements and this could include agreements on research collaborations, joint academic programs, and scholarships for Fijian students to study in Australia.
The other strategy that Fiji is looking at is to enhance networking and advocacy through active engagement with Australian government officials, policymakers, and businesses to raise awareness about the brain drain issue and advocate for support and assistance. Establishing strong networks and collaborations at various levels can help Fiji leverage Australia's resources, influence, and expertise for addressing brain drain challenges.
“I am glad that this strategy is being implemented as we speak during this forum today,” said Minister Singh.
The Australian labour mobility scheme has proven to be immensely beneficial to Fiji, providing employment opportunities, valuable experiences, financial stability for our citizens, and an avenue for economic growth, international cooperation and skills development.
“While we acknowledge the concern of potential impacts on our domestic labor market, the Fiji government is fully dedicated to investing in our local workforce, ensuring its sustainability and growth,” emphasized Minister Singh.
Regular dialogue and feedback mechanisms will enable us to address emerging challenges promptly and adapt the schemes to evolving market needs. Additionally, establishing platforms for cultural exchange and networking between Fijian workers and Australian communities will foster better integration, understanding, and appreciation of our nations' diversity.
“By working together, Australia and Fiji can lay the foundation for a mutually beneficial labour export scheme that enriches our economies, strengthens our friendship, and paves the way for a prosperous future,” he added.