𝐏𝐀𝐋𝐌 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

Over 8,300 Solomon Islanders have to date worked in Australia under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, and this year looks set to be another successful year.

Sixty-two PALM workers attended the first pre-departure briefing for 2025 last week.

The group included 37 new participants and 25 returned workers who were looking forward to the experience and economic benefits of working in Australia.

Acting Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Mr Andrew Schloeffel, congratulated the workers on being selected by Australian employers to join the PALM scheme.

“Jobs are at the heart of the Solomon Islands-Australia partnership, and we know that job creation is vital for Solomon Islands’ economic growth,” acting High Commissioner Schloeffel said.

“The PALM scheme has provided thousands of opportunities for Solomon Islanders to work across various sectors within Australia.”

“Solomon Islanders are not only bringing back new skills and ideas when they return home, they are also sending home increasing amounts of money that helps their families with school fees, building a home, or starting a business, with the benefits being felt by the broader community.”

Acting High Commissioner, Mr Andrew Schloeffel, giving his remarks at the Pre-Departure Briefing

Approved Australian employers recruit workers from the Solomon Islands for short-term and long-term positions across agriculture, horticulture, aged care, and meat processing sectors.

Solomon Islands’ workers have developed a positive reputation among employers in Australia, contributing to the PALM scheme's continued success for the Solomon Islands.

Prior to their departure, PALM workers are briefed on various topics, including immigration and customs, legal matters, worker welfare, workplace health and safety, access to healthcare, budgeting, Australian culture and geography, and insights into the areas of Australia where workers will be located.

“The pre-departure briefing process is crucial to help prepare our workers for the journey they’re about to embark on,” said Labour Mobility Unit Director Christina Maoma Marau.

"Educating the workers about what they can expect regarding the Australian working environment and culture helps to ensure an easier transition for each individual”.

Returned workers also participate in the briefing process to share their experiences and stories with newcomers to the program.

Returning worker Muriel Ramoifai said: “For us returning workers, it’s a good refresher to reset our minds and set our goals before we go back to work.”

The Australian Government works closely with the Solomon Islands Government to create jobs for Solomon Islanders through the PALM scheme.

Media Release | AHC