First impressions

Three months after welcoming 98 personal care workers from Fiji into residential care homes across Queensland and New South Wales, we check in to see how they’re settling in.

The team members have joined us through the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, with this intake Australia’s largest cohort of Pacific Island aged care workers to date.

After spending their first week in our Kelvin Grove support office, the team members transitioned to 17 residential care homes where they have continued to build their skills through six weeks practical training at the locations they will be based in for the next four years.

Sara Allotta from People and Culture said it was wonderful to see the team thrive in their new environment.

“We are hearing a lot of positive feedback and it’s great to see our homes, residents and their families embracing the Fijian team in such a short time,” she said.

“Our newest team members have been finishing their Certificate III in Individual Support and settling into their new roles and life in Australia.”

Five PALM Support Officers (PSOs) are helping the Fijian team members as they become part of their local communities and will be available to assist during their time in Australia.

A ‘Buddy’ program has also been introduced to offer additional on-the-job support across residential care homes. More than 130 buddies are providing advice, guidance and encouragement to our newest team members.

Personal Care Worker Mili said she was thankful for the help from her PSO Amini Tudrau and buddies at Rowes Bay residential care home.

“This is the first time I’ve cared for older people in Australia and the support from Amini and my buddies has been very useful in understanding the different culture and ways of working,” Mili said.

Amini, who moved to Australia from Fiji in 2020, said he was happy to share his experience with his team members.

“There were lots of things I didn’t know when I arrived in Australia so I understand what they are going through and can share practical advice as they become familiar with their new home and community,” he said.

“It’s great to see everyone flourishing in their new roles.”

Featured image: Mayor of Bundaberg Cr Helen Blackburn visited Fairways residential care home to welcome some of our new team members.
Inline image 1: Rowes Bay Personal Care Worker Mili and her PALM Support Officer Amini.