Alterations to Australia's Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme have sparked unease amongst advocates for the Pacific Islander workforce. The changes, aimed at worker protection, could potentially evoke a dark chapter in Australia's past.
Under the new rules, PALM scheme workers must be given an average of 30 work hours per week over a four-week period, as opposed to their entire placement duration. From July 1, 2024, they must receive 30 hours of work per week. These changes were implemented in the previous year's federal budget.
While the intention is to ensure pay stability for PALM workers in Australia, Queensland Pacific Islander advocates fear a historical repetition if growers cannot meet the increased hours requirement. They caution that a fallout similar to the infamous "blackbirding" policy of the late 1800s could occur.
Clacy Fatnowna, a descendant of the blackbird trade and president of the Australian South Sea Islander United Council, warned of the potential repercussions for PALM workers. He suggested government subsidies for both workers and farmers as a more viable solution.
Meanwhile, agronomist Sally Jolly, who is a committee member of the Australian Blueberry Growers Association, and farm manager at Smart Berries, emphasized the importance of flexibility in horticulture due to unpredictable weather and market conditions.
Source: abc.net.au