We chat about Pasefika seasonal workers in Australia, the senate hearing, shortcomings of the Pacific-Australia Labour Mobility scheme (PALM) and how Pacific workers are being abused. We discuss Blackbirding of Pasefika people and how these programs, in some way, are a continuation of that awful practice.
As always, we want ways to help.
1. Read up on some articles and watch/listen to the senate hearing. You can find that here:
https://parlview.aph.gov.au/mediaPlayer.php?videoID=567875&operation_mode=parlview#/1
2. If you know people who are part of the labour scheme - reach out and make sure they have everything they need, particularly during these Winter months.
3. If you don't personally know anyone you can help, join a local effort in collecting things to send to regional areas.
4. Pressure your local MPs - squeak up!
Here are a few articles:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-06-11/pacific-island-scheme-wages-deducted-high-rent-inverell/12336278
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2018/apr/02/pacific-workers-not-backpackers-should-do-australias-regional-work-world-bank
https://theconversation.com/australia-needs-better-conditions-not-shaming-for-pacific-farm-workers-171404
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-09-17/blackbirding-australias-history-of-kidnapping-pacific-islanders/8860754
