When Taueva left Samoa in 2021 to work in Australia on the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, he carried the hopes of his family and a plan for a better future.
Three years later, his journey stands as a testament to the rewards of hard work, resilience, and the life-changing potential of the PALM scheme.
From seafarer to farmer: A plan for change
Originally from the villages of Vailuutai, Faleatiu and Salelavalu, Taueva had been working as a seafarer before turning his focus to farming.
“Having a plantation or farm is one of the biggest income-earning avenues in Samoa today,” he said.
With goals to expand his farm and better provide for his family, Taueva applied to work on the PALM scheme.
Under the PALM scheme, Taueva worked in a factory for three years in Australia.
“It wasn’t easy. The environment and work culture were very different from back home.”
Despite the challenges of separation from his wife and three children, Taueva remained focused.
“Being separated from family has become a motivation; the distance has challenged me mentally,” he said.
Taueva leaned heavily on communication, saying, “This, together with daily prayers to God… gave us workers consolation and strength to do our work.”
The impact of his time in Australia is clearly visible.
Turning opportunity into lasting success
“The first thing I was able to do was purchase a car. This was my first priority because it made it easier for my family to carry out other tasks and responsibilities.”
He also renovated his parents’ house and expanded his cattle farm, aiming to secure long-term stability for his family.
“Many families are well-established because they have other avenues to fall back to, such as cattle farms and crop plantations,” he explained.
“This was my main aim, to work towards all these things,” he said.
“This is where the money I earned from my work on the PALM scheme went.”
Beyond the material improvements, Taueva also credits his PALM scheme experience for personal growth.
“It has improved my own learning and communication skills especially in the English language,” he shared.
He also gained valuable lessons in workplace conduct: “The importance of mutual respect, patience and caring for one another.”
To others considering joining the PALM scheme, his advice is clear.
“Having a close relationship with God will help you face and get through these challenges because it is not easy. Your mind, heart and soul - these things have to be strong.”
He encourages workers to act early on their goals.
“It is good to send money home and start working on these things when you are still in Australia as you earn.”
Taueva mentioned how his personal development in the PALM scheme has helped him in Samoa and calls for other workers to recognise the changes in themselves.
“When you come back to Samoa, we must continue to strive for the best and use the experience we gained in Australia here at home.”
“This program has played a big role in supporting our families and a better future,” he said.
Through hard work, strong values, and a clear plan, Taueva turned a three-year opportunity into success that will support his family for many years to come.
