Government Recovers Over $795,000 in Unpaid Wages for Fijian Workers

More than $795,000 in unpaid wages has been recovered for workers over the past seven months, according to Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh.

Speaking in Parliament during his response to the President’s Address, the Minister said strengthening labour standards and protecting workers’ rights remains a key priority for the Government.

He said poverty and household hardship continue to affect many Fijian families, and ensuring fair wages and proper enforcement of labour laws is critical in addressing these challenges.

“Work remains the most sustainable pathway out of poverty. However, work must be accessible, safe, fairly paid, and protected by law,” the Minister said.

The Ministry has settled 484 labour complaints in the last seven months, resulting in the recovery of unpaid wages owed to workers.

Minister Singh also highlighted that the Government has taken steps to improve wages, with the national minimum wage progressively increased from $4.00 to $5.00 over a seven-month period between 2024 and 2025.

Sectoral wages across ten industries were also adjusted, while tripartite wage councils will continue to periodically review and recommend wage adjustments in response to cost-of-living pressures.

The Minister said enforcing labour standards and resolving complaints efficiently is essential to ensuring workers receive fair treatment and the wages they are entitled to.

He added that strengthening labour protections remains central to improving livelihoods and supporting economic stability for families across Fiji.