Fiji-Australia reaffirms commitment to improving work rights

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh and Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald met in Suva to reaffirm the two governments’ commitment to improving the work rights and benefits of Fijian workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program.

The main focus of the meeting was to strengthen and enhance cooperation between Fiji and Australia on the PALM programme.

Minister Singh and MacDonald discussed in detail allegations of modern slavery, racism, bullying, excessive workload, unfair dismissal and unsafe and unhealthy working conditions under the PALM scheme.

The Minister also stressed the need to further strengthen mechanisms to ensure compliance.

In response to the recent incident which has received widespread media coverage, the Fiji Country Liaison Officer (CLO) and the Department of Workplace Relations (DEWR), with the full support of the Australian High Commission, are actively and thoroughly investigating the matter.

His Excellency confirmed that the team will arrive at the work site this weekend.

Singh further stressed that the two sides also discussed the establishment of an additional Chief Labour Officer in Queensland, Australia and increasing the travel allowance of the current Chief Labour Officer to handle workers’ grievances, especially those living and working in remote areas of Australia.

The importance of having direct contact with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) and having staff responsible for direct communication was also highlighted.

Singh acknowledged the role the Fair Work Ombudsman plays in ensuring fair treatment and compliance with workplace standards.

A ministerial visit to Australia is scheduled for October 2024 to strengthen the labour mobility program to improve the situation of Fijian workers and achieve a “win-win” situation for both countries.

The High Committee will arrange a meeting with the new Minister responsible for the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR).