564 Fijians employed in Australia through Pacific Labour Scheme

564 Fijians are currently employed in the meat industry, hospital and accommodation and age care sectors on 3 year contracts in Australia through the Pacific Labour Scheme while 88 workers are expected to depart next month.

Minister for Employment, Parveen Bala has told parliament that 141 workers will soon leave for Australia under the Seasonal Worker Program.

Bala says there is high demand from Australia for Fijian meat processing workers.

He says they are now finding ways to fill the gap in the local meat industry as a number of experienced workers are now in Australia.

SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka then asked Bala if there are opportunities for workers in other sectors in Australia and if there are plans to expand this program as he believes there is some demand for technical builders, electricians and plumbers.

Bala says they have managed to engage workers in 3 sectors and are now talking to other employers in Australia.