This page is for Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme employers. It explains what disengagement is, what to do if a worker stops attending work, and how the Australian Government can support you.
What is worker disengagement?
Worker disengagement is when a PALM scheme worker leaves their approved employment and stays in Australia without PALM scheme approved work.
A worker may disengage:
- soon after arriving in Australia
- during their period of employment, or
- instead of returning home at the end of their agreed term.
What to do if a worker stops coming to work
If a worker stops attending work and has not provided an explanation, employers have obligations under the PALM scheme.
1. Contact the worker
Employers are encouraged to:
- try to contact the worker using multiple methods (phone, message or email)
- check whether the worker is safe and if they need support.
In some cases, a worker may be experiencing personal or workplace issues and may not understand leave or reporting processes.
2. Report the incident
Once you become aware that a worker has stopped coming to work you must submit an Incident Report through the PALM scheme Approved Employer Portal.
This must be done before close of business on the next day, in line with the obligations set out in the PALM scheme guidelines for non-critical incidents.
Re‑engagement information for employers
Employers may be able to employ workers who have disengaged from the PALM scheme through the re‑engagement process.
If you are interested in this option:
- speak with your Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) relationship manager, or
- email (palm@dewr.gov.au) to discuss next steps.
Why consider re‑engagement?
Re‑engaged workers are already in Australia. In some cases, this can be faster than recruiting from overseas, particularly if employers are wishing to recruit a small group of workers.
Managing grievances
Where possible, DEWR encourages early discussion between employers and workers to resolve issues.
If an employer and a worker are unable to reach an agreement, DEWR can provide support and guidance.
How to seek support
You can request assistance by:
- raising a case through the Approved Employer Portal, or
- contacting your DEWR relationship manager.
For more information about grievances
Detailed information about managing PALM scheme worker grievances is outlined in the Grievance Management Policy.
Information available for PALM scheme workers
The PALM scheme website includes dedicated information for workers about disengagement, re‑engagement and how to raise grievances. These pages explain workers’ rights, responsibilities and the support available to them in clear and accessible terms.
Employers are encouraged to share these pages with workers and use them as a reference to support early resolution of issues where needed.
Need help or advice?
If you are unsure about your obligations or next steps, please contact your DEWR relationship manager for guidance or email (palm@dewr.gov.au).