New Australia labour hire employer, Seeka in Victoria will be receiving a total of twenty – seven (27) Fijian workers under the Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS).
Of the 27 Fijians, fourteen (14) of these workers left our shores this morning for employment opportunities for the duration of nine (9) months in the Agriculture industry. The remaining group will be departing later and joining Seeka for the first time.
The group will be engaged in fruit picking, pruning, packing, planting and general labour on Kiwi fruit farms and Pear Orchards.
The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Parveen Kumar Bala highlighted that these workers were reminded on the expectations of the employer, including those of the Fijian and Australian Governments and their families.
“During the pre-departure briefing these workers have been advised to set clear goals, stay focused and perform their best as this will open up new opportunities for other Fijians wishing to be part of the scheme in the near future,” said Minister Bala.
“Given the current situation, our Fijians are very fortunate to receive this opportunity to assist in their families’ livelihoods as well as improving living standards.”
Also leaving today were 3 Fijian Aged-Care workers for Bolton Clark that did not travel earlier due to the pandemic.
Minister Bala reemphasised that the Ministry through the National Employment Centre (NEC) is the only authorised recruitment agency to send Fijian workers for overseas employment opportunities under the Australia Pacific Labour Scheme and New Zealand Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Work Scheme.