Fijian workers preparing to embark on overseas employment opportunities have been sternly warned about the risks associated with engaging in illegal cash work or breaching their employment contracts. Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, highlighted the serious implications these actions could have for their future prospects at a farewell ceremony for 90 Fijians set to travel to Australia under the labour mobility scheme.
During his address, Singh emphasized the critical importance of adhering to official employment arrangements. He cautioned that those who choose to work for cash instead of following the prescribed guidelines risk facing immediate repatriation, loss of income, and enduring bans from future overseas employment programs.
Safety was another key issue raised by Singh, who noted that workers venturing outside the approved scheme would find themselves lacking coverage under workplace insurance and relevant labor laws. “Once you are outside the scheme, you are no longer covered,” he warned, underlining the vulnerabilities that can arise from unauthorized employment.
Drawing attention to past incidents, Singh illustrated how quickly opportunities can dissipate due to poor decisions. He reminded workers that under Australian law, all employees, including foreign nationals, enjoy equal rights and protections—provided they remain within the framework of their approved employment and honor their contractual commitments.
In his concluding remarks, Singh underscored the importance of seeking assistance through official channels for any difficulties faced while abroad. He pointed out the availability of country liaison officers in Australia as an essential resource for support and guidance.
As the workers prepare to leave, they are urged to maintain discipline and safeguard their reputations. Their actions abroad not only affect their individual futures but also influence the prospects of other Fijians aspiring to work overseas. By adhering to the established guidelines, these workers can enhance their own opportunities and help pave the way for future generations of Fijians in the global job market.