The Government of Australia will not tolerate those who break the agreements contained in their contracts under the Pacific Assistance Labour Mobility scheme.
And Australia’s Foreign Affairs and Trade First Assistant Secretary Jan Hutton is in Fiji and in an interview with the media said the matter of absconders was a serious one and was being looked into.
“We don’t tolerate it, zero tolerance for those who don’t honor their contracts. But we are working to find ways to help the workers adapt and understand their contracts and to speak out if they are not happy where they are.”
Hutton also expressed Australia’s satisfaction with the results and outcomes of the scheme to date.
“The PALM is a great opportunity for people to make a new start in life by securing jobs that will help them and their families back home.”
“The remittances sent home to Fiji monthly have also added to the economy’s growth and we hope this continues into the future.”
Hutton also confirmed that aged care work options will also be opened to Fiji nationals soon.
“We are looking at offering 250 places for those interested in the aged care sector and this will be made available before the end of the year.”
