National

New Caledonia in talks with Australia on labour scheme

By AAP Newswire

Apr 20, 2023

Cruise ship in Noumea, New Caledonia. — Foreign Minister Penny Wong addressed the Congress of New Caledonia in tourism mecaa Noumea. -AAP Image

Australia is considering expanding the Pacific labour mobility scheme to include New Caledonia.

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Foreign Minister Penny Wong is visiting the French territory, where she addressed the Congress of New Caledonia in Noumea.

In a speech, Senator Wong said the government was discussing the proposal with New Caledonian and French authorities.

"Australia wishes to explore the feasibility of New Caledonian residents joining the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility, known as PALM scheme," she said on Thursday.

"It is one example of how Australia is working with Pacific partners to deliver for Pacific priorities and to build a more prosperous, a more secure region.

"Australia is a close friend of France and we are proud of our joint efforts in the region."

Senator Wong said Australia valued France's contribution to security and prosperity in the Pacific.

The labour scheme recruits people from nine Pacific nations and East Timor to help fill critical labour shortages in Australia, while developing skills and providing incomes for workers to support their families back home.

Senator Wong will also travel to Tuvalu this week, marking her 10th visit to the Pacific as foreign minister.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press