Australian Seasonal Worker Program remains viable – says Fiji Employment Minister

Phase two of the Australian seasonal workers programme is now under negotiation despite five Fijians having breached their contracts and over-staying in Australia.

Fiji's Employment Minister Semi Koroilavesau says the programme remains in-tact.

“It’s sort of a misunderstanding on their part. They went there and decided to go and stay with their relatives. There are a lot of discussions with their relatives or friends from Fiji working there and that is where they came up with the idea they are paid lower rates than people living in Australia. They did not consider that they live in Fiji and had to fly to Australia and fly back. All these cost will be deducted.”

Koroilavesau says their Australian counterparts will handle the complaints in the hope that an amicable solution will be reached.

114 Fijians remain at work under the Australian Workers Program with their contracts expected to end in March.

SOURCE: FBC NEWS