TRANSITIONING TO THE PACIFIC AUSTRALIA LABOUR MOBILITY (PALM) SCHEME: KEY UPDATES AND IMPLICATIONS

In April 2022, the Australian Government consolidated the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP) and the Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) into a unified initiative known as the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.

Key Dates and Transition Details:

• April 2022: Announcement of the consolidation of SWP and PLS into the PALM scheme.
• July 2023: Implementation of a single PALM scheme Deed and Guidelines, streamlining arrangements for Approved Employers (AEs) and enhancing support for both short-term and long-term workers.

Implications for Employers:

• Unified Framework: Employers previously participating in SWP or PLS are now required to operate under the consolidated PALM scheme, adhering to the new Deed and Guidelines introduced in July 2023.
• Transition Process: The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) issued Transition Advice Notices in June 2023 to guide AEs through the transition, outlining phased implementation of new PALM scheme settings and the rollout of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Information System (PALMIS).
• Recruitment and Compliance: Employers must submit new recruitment plans and employment contracts in line with PALM scheme requirements. The PALMIS platform, launched on 24 July 2023, facilitates streamlined workflows between employers, labour-sending units, and DEWR.

Implications for Workers:

• Existing Workers: Individuals employed under SWP or PLS arrangements prior to the consolidation will continue under the terms of their original agreements until completion. However, opportunities exist to transition to PALM long-term placements, subject to eligibility and remaining visa validity.
• New Workers: From July 2023, all new workers are employed under the PALM scheme, which offers both short-term (up to 9 months) and long-term (1 to 4 years) employment opportunities across various sectors, including agriculture, meat processing, and other industries facing labour shortages.

Benefits of the PALM Scheme:

• For Employers: The PALM scheme provides a reliable and productive workforce to fill labour gaps, particularly in rural and regional Australia. The unified framework simplifies administrative processes and ensures consistent compliance standards.
• For Workers: Participants gain access to employment opportunities with fair remuneration, skill development, and the ability to support their families through remittances. The scheme also includes measures to ensure worker welfare and protection under Australian workplace laws.

Key Takeaway

The transition to the PALM scheme represents a significant evolution in Australia’s approach to labour mobility, aiming to create a more efficient and supportive environment for both employers and workers. By consolidating previous programs into a single framework, the Australian Government seeks to address labour shortages effectively while providing meaningful employment opportunities for workers from Pacific nations and Timor-Leste.