On The Land
17 June, 2023
Changes to scheme
Major changes to the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme will provide much-needed protection and support for islander workers locally and across Australia.
Major changes to the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme will provide much-needed protection and support for islander workers locally and across Australia.
Key improvements include a minimum of 30 hours of work per week and a minimum weekly take-home pay of $200.
Additionally, the revisions promise pay parity with domestic workers and make inductions mandatory for all workers. Other notable changes to the scheme include an accommodation and transport safety net for workers offered less than 20 hours of work per week.
“These are not minor adjustments but significant wins for both the AWU and the workers we represent,” Australian Workers Union national secretary Daniel Walton said.
“They provide much-needed safeguards, regular income, and will help ensure the dignified treatment of farm workers. Australia does not need to mistreat our guests from the Pacific in order to have a thriving and profitable agriculture and horticulture sectors.”
Mr Walton said the PALM scheme is not just about filling labour shortages but also about “strengthening ties with our neighbours”. “That can only happen if the people who come here to work are treated respectfully and fairly,” he said.
Mr Walton cautioned that while the new rules are welcome, their impact will depend on robust enforcement
