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SEASONAL WORK SUPPORT

Honouring Tradition. Empowering Futures. Strengthening Communities.

The village to village program supports workers from the pacific and Timor-Leste participating in the PALM Scheme with a culturally grounded approach that feels less like relocation and more like moving to a new kind of village.

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A SHARED JOURNEY WITH DEEP ROOTS

Continuing the Tradition

Across the Pacific and Timor-Leste, movement has always been a way of life. From the expert navigators of the Pacific who read the stars and tides, to those who walked from village to village seeking connection, knowledge, and opportunity, this is not a new story. It’s one that continues today.

The Village to Village Program honours that story. Whether by sea or sky, PALM Scheme workers are part of a long tradition of movement with meaning — travelling not just for income, but for transformation.

We support workers at every step of their journey to ensure it becomes more than a job — it becomes a source of pride and possibility, both for the individual and the village that stands behind them.

AN OPPORTUNITY WITH MEANING

More Than Work, A Life-Changing Opportunity

Every PALM Scheme worker walks a unique path. For some, the journey is personal: a chance to grow in confidence, learn new skills, and open new doors for their future. For others, it’s deeply relational: the opportunity to uplift their families and bring back value to their home communities.

The Village to Village Program embraces both.

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Set meaningful personal goals

See the bigger picture of how their efforts ripple outward.

Approach their PALM Scheme work with a deep sense of purpose

Return home with more than just money with new tools, knowledge and pride.

Transforming “brain drain” into brain gain — and empowering the next generation of changemakers.

SUPPORT AT EVERY STEP

A Three-Phase Journey of Support

From the first conversation at home to the knowledge carried back, every phase has purpose.

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BEFORE LEAVING HOME

Pre-Departure Anchoring

  • ​Understand their personal hopes and motivations
     

  • Discuss the impact their journey could have for their family and community.
     

  • Connect them to resources, including diaspora and support organisations in Australia

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LIVING IN AUSTRALIA

Onshore Support

  • A “village feel” through community-style care and regular check-ins

    Support navigating life: housing, health, work, relationships and more

  • Encouragement to reflect on their growth, celebrate wins and seek help when needed

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RETURNING TO COMMUNITY

Return & Repeat
  • Hold reflective sessions to debrief and honour the journey

  • Help workers think about how they’ll share knowledge and skills

  • Encourage mentorship and leadership in their home communities

CULTURE, PEOPLE, PURPOSE

Why It Works

This program is rooted in culture, guided by people and focused on lasting impact.

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Values-Based & Locally Led

Values-based support grounded in local knowledge and culture.

Individual & Community Growth

Recognising that individual development can create wider community benefits.

Wellbeing, Connection & Retention

Helping workers feel supported, connected and equipped to thrive.

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Future Leaders & Mentors

Encouraging workers to return home with knowledge, confidence and a desire to contribute.

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A JOURNEY CONNECTED TO HOME

From Where You Are,
To Where You Want To Be.

Whether you’re from a remote island or a rural village in Timor-Leste, this program meets you where you are — and helps you go further than you imagined.

START A CONVERSATION

Supporting People. Strengthening Communities. Creating Lasting Change.

Discover how Island Spirit Australia’s Village to Village Program creates a more supported, purposeful journey for seasonal workers and the communities they return to.

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