Two Country Liaison Officers have been appointed to oversee the welfare of all Ni-Vanuatu workers engaged with the Labour Mobility Program in Australia and New Zealand.
Patrice Kuautonga, the senior Labour Officer has taken up the post and will be based in Australia. He departed the country last week and will be stationed in Canberra for three months to undergo the capacity-building training prior to being posted to the state which is accommodating a high number of Ni-Vanuatu citizens.
Olivia Fleur Johnson, a Ni-Vanuatu citizen based in New Zealand, was appointed to supervise the workers under the Recognised Seasonal Employee (RSE) scheme in New Zealand. Her appointment was effective from September 29, 2022.
Both appointments were approved by the Public Service Commission (PSC).
Their role is to provide pastoral service and look into welfare issues for the workers. They are also required to work with the approved employees to address any issues relating to their welfare.
Commissioner of Labour, Murielle Meltenoven, highlighted that with an increase in social issues involving the workers, the effort by the Vanuatu government to establish these positions is welcomed by the Department of Labour.
She referred to these appointments as an “achievement” since the establishment of the program more than 10 years ago. She added that the appointments are timely.
The Vanuatu Government is also committed to increasing the number of liaison officers for the program in the future.
Commissioner Meltenoven acknowledged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PSC, and the Vanuatu government for the joint effort in ensuring these positions are in place.
Workers are therefore urged to communicate with their Country Liaison officers who will be working in partnership with the mission offices in both countries, should they encounter any welfare issues.