Translate
The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme allows eligible Australian businesses to hire workers from nine Pacific islands and Timor-Leste. Its workers face many challenges including language barriers, lack of social networks, loneliness and home sickness.
To build social connections and a sense of belonging the Lions Club of Penguin organised a community walk and dinner for PALM workers and Penguin locals.
There was a drumming performance, singing and dancing, including the Timor-Leste harvest dance.
The event nurtured many friendships between the visiting Timor-Leste workers and the residents of Penguin. Several other events have since occurred to bring the communities together.
The program is funded by a Neighbours Every Day grant.