FIP Group achieved an extraordinary milestone in August 2023, placing its 8,000th worker under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme in just four years.
Christiano Martins Gusmao is one of a growing number of workers from Timor-Leste, and his role as a production worker with Australian Country Choice in Brisbane helped FIP Group achieve the new mark.
Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Kiribati have been among the nations where FIP Group has sourced most of its PALM Scheme workforce since the program began in 2019. However, Timor Leste (formally known as East Timor and one of the world’s youngest nations) has seen a growing number of its population move to Australia under the scheme in the past 12 months.
Christiano's story embodies the commitment and dedication that PALM workers bring to their roles in Australia. His experience sheds light on the aspirations and contributions of workers from Timor-Leste, demonstrating the diverse backgrounds found within the PALM Scheme.
Adjusting to work in Australia
Being among the initial cohort of Timorese workers to come to Australia under FIP Group was an adjustment for Christiano. "Australia is very different from what I know back home in Timor-Leste," he said. He reflected on his first day arriving to Australia where he was welcomed at the airport and took part in his first Aussie barbeque saying, “It felt great to arrive knowing my journey working in Australia was just about to begin.”
Supporting family and education
For Christiano, his work in Australia holds deeper significance beyond personal achievement. "I'm very happy to get the work in Australia," he shared, "I'm able to support my children and nephew to finish their studies." His commitment reflects the broader mission shared by PALM workers - to seek opportunities abroad that secure a brighter future for their families in their home countries. Christiano's journey also captures the essence of PALM workers' contributions and aspirations, particularly supporting their families and the wider community.
FIP Group's placement of Christiano as its 8,000th PALM worker highlights the collective achievements and dedication of PALM employees while spotlighting the company's commitment to facilitating a positive experience for PALM workers, empowering them to support their families and achieve their goals.
