48 workers to leave for Australia under PALM scheme

By Lachlan Eddie

Following a Pre-Departure Briefing (PDB) yesterday, 48 local workers will soon leave for Australia to work on various farms under the Pacific Australia Labor Mobility (PALM) scheme.

The PDB was held at the office of the Labor Mobility Unit (LMU) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET).

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, advised workers to stay focused on their goals.

“I want you to focus on your work, focus on what you will gain from the scheme and what will benefit you and your family,” Minister Agovaka said.

“This scheme is short-term employment, but one that helps you and your family and perhaps your communities too, to earn money to build houses, run your own businesses, operate taxis and buses, and other ventures.”

Minister Agovaka discouraged the workers from involving themselves in social issues that could disrupt their work and objectives while in Australia.

“But if you focus on spoiling your marriage and engaging in anti-social issues, this will impact your work and will also impact your relationships back here in Solomon Islands,” he added.

He further stated that the Ministry has blacklisted some workers because they were focused on different issues rather than their work, families, and goals.

The Minister reminded the workers that they represent the country, and their actions in Australia reflect the entire nation and government.

“What you do or say is a reflection of you as an ambassador for the country in the place you work,” he said.

Minister Agovaka wished the 48 workers well in their travel and work in Australia.

Meanwhile, Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said he was happy to join the workers during their pre-departure briefing and welcomed them to Australia.

“This is a proud time not only for yourselves and your families but for the partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands,” he said.

He added that he wants more Solomon Islanders to work in Australia for the benefit of the workers and to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Australia and Solomon Islands.

He said he had met many PALM scheme workers who have worked in Australia and returned to Solomon Islands, with some coming back to build houses, start businesses, and pursue other ventures.

He told the workers that they have been selected because of their skills, character, and potential.

“You now become ambassadors for your country and Australia welcomes you, so thank you for joining this journey,” he said.

“We are honored and proud that you have decided to support us,” he added.

ENDS//