564 Fijians Working Under Pacific Labour Scheme In Australia Ministry preparing more workers for upcoming labour mobility programmes. by fonua talei Minister for Employment Parveen Bala on February 12, 2021. Photo: Ronald Kumar
2021-04-03
A total of 564 Fijians are employed in meat works, hospital and accommodation and aged care sectors under the Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) in Australia.
This was revealed in Parliament this week by the Minister for Employment, Parveen Bala.
In addition to the number of Fijians employed under the scheme, the ministry is preparing more workers for other upcoming labour mobility programmes.
Fiji’s participation under the scheme was formal
Overseas seasonal workers can quarantine on farms in the NT
WedWednesday 3
updated
ThuThursday 4
FebFebruary 2021 at 4:51am
Seasonal workers first began arriving in the NT last year to help struggling mango farmers deal with a massive labour shortage caused by coronavirus travel restrictions.
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Seasonal workers arriving from overseas can now undertake their fortnight of mandatory quarantine on farms in the Northern Territory, meaning they ll no longer have to stay in costly government facilities.
Key points:
Growers will still need to abide by strict COVID management plans
Industry has welcomed the news, but wishes it was allowed sooner
Health by MADURA MCCORMACK
Premium Content  INTERNATIONAL seasonal workers will be allowed to undertake quarantine on farm in the Northern Territory under a new process approved by the chief health officer, in a boon for growers that have been crying out for staff. Health Minister Natasha Fyles office confirmed workers hired as part of the Commonwealth s Pacific Labour Scheme and Seasonal Worker Programme by an approved employer can get an exemption from the chief health officer to undertake 14 days of mandatory quarantine on farm . It will be done on a case-by-case basis under strict rules that include an online COVID-19 management plan with employers to explain why it is critical for them to employ international workers.
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Fruit and veg growers at the pointy end of labour shortages as government incentives fall short of industry s needs
TueTuesday 19
updated
TueTuesday 19
February-April is the busiest season for picking on southern Queensland s Granite Belt.
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Shoppers are being warned to expect higher produce prices at the checkout in the coming months after government programs failed to attract enough workers to address the industry s ongoing farm labour shortages.
Key points:
A Federal Government program aimed at attracting more Australians to harvest work has been taken up by 453 people
A similar incentive offered by the Queensland government has attracted around 60 people