Doubling of PALM training supports workers and employers for the long term, here and abroad
The Albanese Government is helping more than 31,000 Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme workers receive extra training to build skills and support long‑term employability.
Our Government is lifting its contribution for job-specific training under the PALM Skills Development Program from 40% to 60%, doubling the annual funding cap from $300 to $600 per worker.
From today, PALM scheme employers can access this increased support for tier 3 training, which focuses on short, job‑relevant courses.
The training includes nationally recognised courses in:
- forklift operation
- safe food handling
- working safely at heights
- chemical safety
- other training aligned to their work.
The additional training will help PALM workers get recognised Australian skills and credentials that strengthen job performance in Australia and deliver benefits when they return home to their communities across the Pacific and in Timor-Leste.
Employers will benefit from a better trained and more productive workforce in industries including horticulture, meat processing and care.
Since late 2023, the Australian Government has approved more than $500,000 in funding through the program. Further consultation is being held this year to continue to refine the program.
For more information, visit the PALM Scheme Skills Development Program website.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth:
“The Albanese Government is supporting employers to invest in job-relevant training that delivers real benefits for workers and improves workplace productivity.
“This additional funding for practical training will help PALM workers do their jobs safely and build skills that support their long‑term employability.
“This investment reflects our commitment to a fair and inclusive PALM scheme that delivers positive outcomes for workers, employers and participating countries.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy:
“The Albanese Government is committed to growing and strengthening the PALM scheme to deliver for the Pacific, and Timor-Leste at the same time as supporting Australian industries.”
“We are responding and listening to the priorities of the Pacific and Timor-Leste to ensure training and skills development is a central feature of the PALM scheme.
“This funding will enhance opportunities for PALM workers to gain skills they can deploy to make a positive contribution to their communities when they return home.”