Four Solomon Islands women recruited as care workers in terms of the Australian Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS).
It was reported in the Solomon Star newspaper, today, Thursday, that Australia in terms of its Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) has recruited four aged care workers from the Solomon Islands.
The four women selected will undertake roles in Mercy Services residential care facility in Singleton, New South Wales.
Prior to leaving for Australia, the four workers will participate in pre-departure training which will included detailed information about worker contracts, and general information about Australian laws, customs and culture.
Quoting the Solomon Star article, it said:
The Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands congratulated the workers. His Excellency Dr. Lachlan Strahan, told the women “this is a historic moment - you will be the first-ever Solomon Islanders to work in aged care roles through PLS.”
Dr Jimmie Rodgers, Secretary to the SI Prime Minister, provided opening remarks on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government.
Dr Rodger told the group; “this morning is a bit of history. This is a new sector for us and we have a competitive advantage. Our Solomon Islands qualities help make you the total carer.
“You are ambassadors for Solomon Islands and perceptions matter. Whether other employers will recruit from Solomon Islands depends on you. Make all of us proud – your family, your community, your country.”
“Increasing Solomon Islands participation in Australia’s labour mobility programs is a shared priority. I am pleased that Solomon Islands labour mobility has expanded into aged care which is a priority sector for the Solomon Islands Government.”
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
