A powerful story of dedication, perseverance, and success continues to unfold for returning seasonal worker, Mr. Rocky Fereti, who has proudly completed his eighth deployment under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme since 2018.
Mr. Fereti, who is employed by Owen Pacific PTE Ltd, an approved horticulture employer in Australia, works in avocado harvesting and has become a shining example of how overseas employment opportunities can transform lives and communities. Married and a father of three sons, Mr. Fereti has used his earnings wisely to significantly improve his family’s quality of life.
Through his commitment, he earned approximately FJD $30,000, which played a crucial role in paying off his housing mortgage and completing home improvements. He also purchased a vehicle to support his family’s transportation needs.
Beyond his personal achievements, Mr. Fereti has made a significant contribution to Fiji’s labour mobility program. Recognising his leadership qualities and reliability, his employer entrusted him with assisting in recruiting additional workers from Fiji. Working alongside the National Employment Centre (NEC) team, Mr. Fereti helped mobilise and support the recruitment of more than 100 Fijians for employment opportunities in Australia.
Mr. Fereti expressed his gratitude to the Employment Ministry for the intensive Pre-Departure Briefing (PDB) training provided to the selected workers. Having undergone the training multiple times, he emphasised its importance in preparing workers for life and employment overseas.
“The PDB training really helps workers understand what to expect while working in Australia. It sets clear goals and promotes a strong culture of saving and financial planning,” Mr. Fereti said.
He acknowledged the Government’s continuous efforts through the Ministry in educating workers about the opportunities and responsibilities under the PALM scheme. However, he also encouraged workers to remain mindful of their obligations while overseas.
“Some workers forget what they have been trained for and ignore their responsibilities, including unnecessary spending and absconding from employers. It is important that we respect the opportunity given to us,” he said.
Mr. Fereti strongly emphasised the importance of teamwork, unity, and supporting one another while working overseas.
“We must work together as a family for collective success. When one person succeeds, it uplifts families, communities, and the nation,” he added.
Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Honourable Agni Deo Singh, commended Mr. Fereti’s achievements, and said his story would help inspire others.
“We encourage other Fijian workers to remain focused, work responsibly, and maximise the benefits of overseas employment opportunities for themselves, their families, and their communities,” Minister Singh said.
Mr. Fereti extended his sincere appreciation to the Government of Fiji and the Ministry for providing him and many other Fijians with life-changing employment opportunities through the PALM scheme.
His journey stands as an inspiring reminder of the transformative impact of overseas employment when combined with discipline, unity, and a strong commitment to family and community development.