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The PALM program: a real pathway to work in Australia.

If you're from a participating Pacific Island nation or Timor-Leste, the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme may offer you the chance to work in Australia. Here's how it works — and how we can help.

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Understanding the PALM scheme

The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme is an Australian Government program that allows citizens of participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste to work in Australia for approved employers.

What PALM is
  • A government-backed labour mobility scheme connecting Pacific workers with Australian employers
  • A legal pathway to work in Australia with proper visa arrangements and workplace protections
  • Available for agriculture, aged care, healthcare support, hospitality, meat processing, and other sectors
What PALM is not
  • It is not a migration or permanent residency program (though some longer-term pathways exist)
  • It is not run by private recruiters — approved employers engage workers through the program
  • Workers are not free to change employers without going through proper processes

Note: The PALM scheme rules, eligible countries, and industries can change based on Australian Government policy. We provide guidance based on current settings, but always confirm details through official sources or with our team.

Am I eligible for PALM?

The PALM scheme is generally open to citizens of participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste.

General candidate requirements
  • Citizen of a participating Pacific Island country or Timor-Leste
  • Meet health and character requirements set by Australian immigration
  • Be fit to perform the work required (some roles are physically demanding)
  • Be willing to commit to a defined contract length
  • Have no current Australian visa cancellations or compliance issues

Note: You do not necessarily need formal qualifications or English test results for all PALM roles, though some positions (especially in healthcare/aged care) may have additional requirements.

How the process works, step by step

Part 1Getting Started
1

Expression of interest

Register your interest with us through our online form with your background, country, and work preferences.

2

Initial assessment

We review your details to check if you meet the general PALM eligibility criteria and which roles might suit you.

3

Pre-departure readiness

If you're a strong candidate, we help you prepare: gathering documents, understanding what to expect in Australia.

4

Employer matching

Your profile is presented to approved Australian employers with genuine labour needs.

5

Employer engagement and approval

If an employer is interested, you may have an interview. The employer then applies for government approval.

Part 2Making It Happen
6

Visa and travel arrangements

Once approved, visa and travel arrangements are made. Travel costs are generally covered by the employer.

7

Pre-departure orientation

You'll receive orientation on Australian workplace culture, your rights, and practical information.

8

Arrival in Australia

You arrive and are received by the employer or support person. You're taken to your accommodation.

9

Work placement

You begin work under Australian employment laws and conditions with the same protections as Australian workers.

10

Ongoing support and welfare checks

Throughout your placement, you have access to welfare support. The government conducts welfare checks.

Important: Timelines vary depending on employer demand, government processing, and your readiness. There is no guaranteed timeline from expression of interest to departure.

What you're entitled to as a PALM worker

The PALM scheme has built-in protections for workers. Here's what you should know, in plain English.

Pay and conditions

  • • Paid at least the applicable Australian award rate
  • • Receive payslips showing earnings, deductions, and hours
  • • Entitled to leave (annual, sick) as per Australian law

Accommodation

  • • Employer must arrange suitable accommodation
  • • Deductions are regulated and must be transparent
  • • Must meet minimum standards for safety and livability

Workplace safety

  • • Covered by Australian workplace health and safety laws
  • • Right to a safe working environment
  • • Covered by workers' compensation if injured at work

Welfare and pastoral care

  • • Access to confidential welfare support
  • • Independent from your employer
  • • Government monitors compliance through regular checks

PALM program — your questions answered

Find answers to common questions about eligibility, pay, accommodation, travel, and more on our dedicated FAQ page.

View All FAQs

Get Started with PALM

Whether you are a Pacific worker seeking opportunities in Australia or an employer looking to access the PALM scheme, we can help.

For Pacific Workers

Register your interest to be considered for work opportunities in Australia through the PALM scheme. We will review your details and match you with approved employers.

Register Your Interest

For Employers & Providers

Interested in accessing Pacific workers through the PALM scheme? Complete our provider enquiry form and our team will contact you within 2 business days to discuss your workforce needs.

Provider Enquiry Form

Prefer to speak with someone directly? Book a call with our team.

Book a Call