How does mutual recognition of approved accommodation plans work under the PALM scheme?
- We know accommodation is a challenging aspect of supporting workers while they are in Australia.
- If an approved employer has had an accommodation site previously approved for the SWP or PLS, they will not need to complete the standard accommodation plan process.
- The employer will, however, need to provide enough information to allow us to identify and approve the accommodation. The following information should be provided:
- accommodation type
- identification of whether the accommodation is commercial
- address of the accommodation
- ownership of the accommodation and any actual, perceived or potential conflict of interest
- details of any bond that will be charged
- maximum occupancy for the accommodation
- the gender of workers who will be accommodated at the accommodation site
- advise if only one employer’s workers will be accommodated at the property during their placement and, if not, provide details of who else will be accommodated at the site
- confirmation the accommodation meets the minimum requirements under the deed and guidelines
- confirmation if the accommodation is a private arrangement
- a written explanation of the sleeping areas available, e.g., this is a 4-bedroom house with 2 single beds in each room
- an external photograph of the property only
- outline the cost per PALM scheme worker and the basis of rent charged
- outline the workplace and community facilities
- advise in the accommodation plan if the site has been approved previously for another PALM scheme employer.
- At all times, irrespective of any prior approval of any accommodation site, the approved employer remains responsible for ensuring the accommodation under the recruitment meets minimum program standards.