Our processing facility in Inverell, New South Wales, recently had the honour of hosting the Hon. Agni Deo Singh, Fijian Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations. He was accompanied by four colleagues from the Fijian Government:
- Mr. Mataiasi Daulako – Acting Manager (Member Education & Advocacy), Fiji National Provident Fund
- Ms. Elina Adi – Senior Media Liaison Officer, Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations
- Ms. Vandhana Singh – Labour Mobility Officer, Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Workplace Relations
- Mr. Diwan Shankar – Country Liaison Officer
They were also joined by representatives from Australia’s Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, making this visit a significant moment of international collaboration.
The visit was a powerful reminder of the positive impact that Bindaree’s partnership with the Pacific Labour Scheme (PALM Scheme) has had on our team and wider community. Heartwarming stories were shared, showcasing the incredible opportunities and personal growth experienced by our Fijian team members.
One standout story came from Salma Bibi, the first female Pacific Labour Scheme slicer at Bindaree to be sponsored on a skilled visa. Salma arrived in Australia with no prior experience but gained certified qualifications and skills through the support of Bindaree and FIP Group. Her journey is a testament to resilience and determination, providing significant personal milestones, including renovating her home in Fiji and supporting her daughter through university.
This inspiring visit reinforced the strength of international collaboration and the impact of the PALM Scheme on our team.
As shared by our Chief People Officer, Todd Newton, “The PALM Scheme has been wonderful for our business. Without the support of FIP Group and the PALM workers, our operational landscape would have looked vastly different.”
Bindaree Food Group continues to value its strategic partnership with FIP Group, ensuring seamless integration of the PALM Scheme across multiple sites. This collaboration is not only driving operational success but also creating life-changing opportunities for individuals like Salma Bibi, reinforcing our commitment to fostering growth and resilience within our workforce.
To learn more about the recent ministerial visit, read the article published by the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation: Fijian workers in Australia praise employer support. You can also explore our previous blogs highlighting the positive impact of the PALM Scheme.
