The Employment Minister while delivering his address at the Australia Fiji Business Council Forum yesterday (01/09/2023) in Australia highlighted that the implementation on FNPF deduction for Fijian workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme is key to the Fiji Government.
Minister Agni Deo Singh emphasised that the Fiji Government through the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) is also working in collaboration with the approved employers under the scheme.
“As part of this collaboration, FNPF is encouraging employers to enable the deduction of contributions from the earnings of Fijian workers operating offshore in Australia directly to their superannuation fund in Fiji.
“Through this initiative, Fijian workers will have the opportunity to benefit from long term financial security and build their retirement savings through the FNPF.”
Minister Singh added that the team had the opportubity to meet with the employers and unions on 30th August and are most willing to assist with deduction in remittance of FNPF.
"We are now calling upon the Government of Australia to assist in facilitating this. Legislations may have to be looked at inorder to implement these deductions."
He added that the current provision requires employers to deduct super and the worker can apply for transfer of the same after departure to their home country of which a 35% tax is applicablle.
He highlighted further that this matter would be escalated to government level for further discussion and resolution.
Employment Minister Singh emphasised that both Governments' commitment are essential in ensuring that our workers are protected, both at home and abroad and continue to actively engage in bilateral discussions to ensure fair treatment, decent working conditions, and adequate wages for our citizens working under the scheme.