PALM scheme

Regional hiring pathways

In today’s landscape, attracting and retaining Australian workers for regional and remote jobs can present significant challenges. The PALM scheme is a solution designed to bridge these gaps, empower businesses to reshape workforce dynamics, providing a pathway for growth and success within the workforce.

What is the PALM Scheme? 

Discover the PALM Scheme’s advantage in enabling eligible Australian businesses to engage workers from nine Pacific Islands and Timor-Leste. When local employees aren’t available, the scheme offers a ready pool of reliable and productive workers to bridge labour gaps across rural and regional Australia.


Eligible businesses can recruit workers for seasonal roles up to nine months or between one and four years for longer-term jobs. This initiative not only benefits business however also equips Pacific and Timorese workers to develop their skills for their own countries whilst supporting their families and communities by sending their income home. 

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Industries and roles 

AWX’s PALM Scheme extends to various industries including meat works, fisheries, agriculture and horticulture, accommodation, hospitality, tourism and aged care. By facilitating employment opportunities, we’re fostering a network of positive connections and empowering workers for personal and professional growth. 


The benefits of the PALM Scheme 

  • Reliable and dedicated workforce 
  • Happy workers who are thankful for the opportunity 
  • High retention rates 
  • Acquire employees with specific skills 
  • Creating positive environment and connections 
  • Introducing innovative ways of working allowing workers to learn whilst on the job 
  • Supporting economic development in nine countries 

Countries we recruit from

Fiji

Karibati

Nauru

Papua New Guinea

Samoa

Solomon Islands

Timor-Leste

Tonga

Tuvalu

Vanuatu

PALM Scheme FAQs

  • What is the PALM scheme in Australia?

    The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme is an Australian Government initiative that allows eligible businesses to hire workers from nine Pacific Islands and Timor-Leste to address gaps and workforce shortages across rural and regional Australia.  

  • What countries do workers come from under the PALM Scheme?

    PALM Scheme workers are sourced from countries including Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.  

  • How do I join the PALM Scheme?

    To join the PALM Scheme, there are a number of eligibility requirements for employers including demonstrating that you are an eligible business registered and operating within Australia as well as not an individual, sole trader or unincorporated company. For the full list of eligibility requirements visit the PALM Scheme website for the application form.  

  • How do businesses get involved in the PALM Scheme

    To access the PALM Scheme Employment program, employers must meet a number of practical, financial and worker support related eligibility requirements, including: 

    • Be within the approved postcode and/or in regional areas (exemptions may apply) 
    • Have an approved PALM AWX Employee Salary Analysis  
    • Credit Application Form  
    • Recruitment Plan  
    • Worker Request Profile Form  
    • WHS and JSA documentation  
    • Workplace Policies and Procedures documentation  
    • COVID-19 Safety Management Plan  
    • Approved accommodation facilities 
    • Vehicle/Transport (if providing)  
    • Client contribution towards worker’s flights  
    • Signed Client Rate Calc Quote  
    • Signed CSA

    AWX has a team recruiting PALM workers successfully, profitably and for longevity, creating growth, reliability, and long-term partnerships across these industries. 

  • What's involved for workers upon starting?

    • Dedicated account manager assigned to each assignment 
    • Full 24/7 pastoral care 

    We help workers settle in by ensuring all instructions are communicated to the workers and assist them in their transition to living in Australia. We also provide assistance with: 

    • Full recruitment and mobilisation from the 10 countries 
    • Accommodation and appropriate living arrangements 
    • Personal finance, superannuation, insurance and banking services and private health insurance 
    • Tax returns 
    • Sending money home 
    • Buying essential items in Australia (SIM cards, phones, clothing, etc.) 
    • Acquiring an Australian driver’s license 
    • Explaining the role of the Fair Work Ombudsman 
    • Educating in workplace rights and entitlements 
    • Assistance with health and medical contacts 
    • Education and training opportunities 
    • Contacts for any diaspora in the community where they will live and work