Fiji and New Zealand review Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme to improve worker benefits

The Recognised Seasonal Employer work scheme continues to provide strong support for many Fijian families, particularly in rural areas.

This has been highlighted as officials from the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations met with representatives from New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and the New Zealand High Commission in Fiji to review the programme.

Permanent Secretary for Employment, Jone Maritino Nemani, says the review is focused on improving recruitment processes, expanding opportunities, strengthening skills development and ensuring better protection for workers.

Nemani says labour mobility must remain a partnership built on mutual respect, adding that the RSE scheme has already improved livelihoods and created meaningful opportunities for many Fijians.

He adds that income earned through the programme continues to support housing, water projects and other developments in communities.

Both Fiji and New Zealand have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the scheme to ensure it continues to deliver long-term benefits for workers, employers and communities.