President of the Republic (PR), José Ramos-Horta, called on Timorese workers to demonstrate discipline, good behaviour and responsibility while working overseas, particularly in Australia.
“Good behaviour will set an example for others, and it is very important for workers to take advantage of the opportunity to learn English so they can increase their professional capacity when they return to Timor-Leste,” President Ramos-Horta said at a ceremony for the signing of a declaration between the workers and the government before their departure for Australia, at Palm Springs Hotel, Fatuhada, Dili.
He said that Timorese workers are not only seeking better livelihoods overseas but also contribute directly to economic development and strengthening bilateral relations between Timor-Leste and Australia.
He added that the economies of the two countries are interconnected and when Australia’s economy grows strongly, Timor-Leste benefits through employment opportunities and the income earned by migrant workers.
On the same occasion, President Ramos-Horta congratulated all the workers and wished them success in their work.
On the other hand, Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), Rogério Araújo Mendonça, said that the 135 workers departing at this time will be placed with ten (10) companies in Australia.
“SEFOPE continues to provide training and motivation to workers to comply with the contracts and procedures established between the Government of Timor-Leste and partner countries,” he said.
Rogério also said that the labour mobility programme serves as a preventive measure to ensure workers travel through official mechanisms and receive legal protection under bilateral agreements.
He said that the labour mobility programme began in 2012 and that since then, a total of 25,366 Timorese citizens had the opportunity to work in Australia.
Meanwhile, Australian Deputy Ambassador to Timor-Leste Edward Wilkinson said that the workers will be distributed across different states in Australia, including Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia.
“Timorese workers will make an important contribution to industry and communities in Australia, while strengthening people-to-people ties that form the foundation of bilateral relations between the two countries,” he said.
He said that the Australian Government remains committed to working with the Government of Timor-Leste and other partners to ensure a safe, positive and sustainable work experience for workers and their families, while contributing to Timor-Leste’s long-term development.
