Bougainvillians returning from seasonal work in Australia are leveraging their newly acquired skills and earnings to launch agricultural projects and businesses within their communities.
Recently, alumni of the Bougainvillean seasonal worker program gathered to share their experiences and the benefits accrued from participating in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.
Returned PALM worker Carol Nevirui highlighted her personal journey, stating, “We learned how to keep plants healthy and promote growth. I now cultivate copra at home and have invested my income into building a new kitchen.”
To date, 85 Bougainvilleans have participated in seasonal and long-term employment opportunities in Australia through the PALM scheme. The initiative is backed by the Australian Government, in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government, the PNG Labour Mobility Unit, and Bougainville’s Regional Member, Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jnr.
During the event, Minister Tsiamalili Jnr presented a K1 million cheque to the President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), Ishmael Toroama, in collaboration with the Bougainville Partnership to enhance the region’s involvement in the PALM scheme.
Minister Tsiamalili Jnr emphasized the economic impact of the initiative, stating, “The results have been extraordinary. Many participants have used their earnings to build homes, launch businesses, and invest in agricultural ventures, including cocoa nurseries and the purchase of dry beans. This exemplifies a partnership that delivers lasting results for our people.”
President Toroama noted that the Labour Mobility Program not only provides financial opportunities but also empowers Bougainvilleans with valuable experiences that will benefit them and their communities for years to come.
Dr. Fiona Crockford, First Secretary at the Australian Development Assistance Office in Port Moresby, expressed the Australian Government’s pride in supporting economic development through the PALM scheme. “We are delighted to see Bougainvilleans benefiting from this program,” she remarked. “Returning alumni are using their new skills to generate income and enhance the lives of their families and communities, contributing to lasting economic change.”
