“This is the first time PALM workers have become certified firefighters and our Fijian workers are the first ones under the scheme,” he said.
From left: Three Fijians, Amino Cava, Josateki Vunimasi, and Allan Whippy, who now serve as voluntary members of the Swan Hill, Victoria Country Fire Authority (CFA).
Nine Fijian workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme have earned credentials to proudly serve as voluntary members of the Swan Hill, Victoria Country Fire Authority (CFA).
This is after completing their General Firefighter training.
Minister for Employment Agni-Deo Singh praised the Fijians for their commitment and strongly encouraged them to keep giving back to their society.
Mr Singh also acknowledged the workers for setting the benchmark for other Fijian workers in Australia.
“This is the first time PALM workers have become certified firefighters and our Fijian workers are the first ones under the scheme,” he said.
“These workers left our shores in July 2022 for employment opportunities with Whales Regional Workforce (WRW), have been engaged with community work and at the same time, learning new things in life.
“I wish to express my greatest appreciation to the Swann Hill CFA for recognising the effort of our workers and for believing in them.”
Mr Singh also extended his acknowledgment to the Fijian community for their nurturing and guidance.
Also for connecting our PALM workers with the community, which has resulted in the remarkable achievement.
Connecting with any community is not something challenging for Fijians or other workers from the Pacific as it is part of the Pacific culture and lifestyle.
Mr Singh urged other Fijian employees employed via the PALM programme to imitate these nine individuals and give back to the community where they now reside as a form of social responsibility.
Meanwhile, a joint church service led by the Methodist Church of Fiji in Australia was held to commemorate the achievement.
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