A concerning video has emerged of a homeless disengaged Fijian PALM Worker living under a bridge on the Sydney Metro network.
Fijian blogger Bula Boys Abroad recently met the former PALM Scheme worker living under the bridge, and he then purchased groceries and essential supplies for the group.
It has been said that the man originally arrived in Australia under the PALM Scheme through the National Employment Centre or NEC, and was employed at an abattoir in Tamworth, New South Wales.
Like many workers, he went with dreams of supporting his family and creating a better future for his wife and four children back in Fiji.
Sadly, according to the man, following marital difficulties that affected his wellbeing and work performance, he disengaged from his employment and eventually found himself struggling to survive.
A skilled welder by trade, he has been picking up occasional jobs where possible, but not enough to secure stable accommodation or build the life he once envisioned when he first arrived in Australia.
During the interview, he also shared that he had lost his passport, adding another challenge to an already difficult situation.
The video also reveals that he is not alone. There are other people living in and around the same location, including another Fijian man and individuals from Vietnam and Timor-Leste, all appearing to face similar challenges.
We have sent questions to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh and Permanent Secretary for Employment Maretino Nemani.
They are yet to respond.
