| The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) is updating the arrival and departure reporting requirements in the PALM scheme to improve visibility of how, when and where workers are participating in the program, including movements within Australia. These changes are designed to: ensure accurate, timely and robust data to support program delivery better enable DEWR to provide support in a timely manner simplify reporting obligations for employers improve data quality and responsiveness. What’s changing? Effective from 15 August, updates will be reflected in the PALM Information System (PALMIS) approved employer (AE) portal, with release notes available via the AE portal and the DEWR PALMIS website. Key changes include: updates to worker arrival reporting requirements reporting worker arrival to Australia within 14 days remains unchanged report worker arrival following redeployment or extension while onshore in Australia within 14 days. simplifying reporting worker end of employment removing the End of Employment reporting form worker abandonment of employment (disengagement) and intention to resign or intention to terminate must be reported as a non-critical incident within one business day for worker resignation and employer termination of a worker, a departure report must be completed within one business day end of worker placement to be completed within 14 days. clarifying the requirements employers must meet when: transitioning a short-term worker to a new long-term placement extending a worker’s placement or redeploying a worker while onshore in Australia. Why these changes are important The updates aim to: make it easier for employers to meet reporting obligations by providing a single reporting mechanism for each type of scenario provide clearer instructions on what to report, when and how strengthen support for workers and employers during incidents improve alignment with policy settings and reduce duplication and confusion. What is expected from employers From 15 August 2025, employers must comply with the updated reporting requirements within the PALM scheme Approved Employer Guidelines. Employers should regularly review the PALM scheme website to ensure they are meeting their obligations found in the most up to date version of the guidelines. A summary of changes made to the arrival and departure reporting requirements can be found in the version history in the guidelines, employers should refer to the sections specified, in accordance with all relevant Fair Work Act or Fair Work Instrument as applicable with the PALM scheme guidelines. Employers should contact their DEWR relationship manager in the first instance if they have any questions regarding their understanding and compliance with deed and guidelines obligations. Where can I find more information Starting week commencing 15 August, guidance materials including training videos will be provided via PALMIS release notes in PALMIS and published on the DEWR website. Employers having difficulty understanding the new requirements are encouraged to contact: DEWR relationship manager DEWR PALMIS helpdesk available at (PALMITSystems@dewr.gov.au) the in-country recruitment database helpdesk can provide technical support at (ird@plmsp.com.au). |
