In Gippsland, Victoria, inspectors from the Labour Hire Authority discovered alarming living conditions for migrant workers housed in a property that had severe hygiene and safety issues. When arriving at the site, they found sewage pooling in the front yard and extensive black mould covering various surfaces within the dwelling. These conditions were reported by a tip-off concerning the welfare of workers under the PALM scheme, which aims to help fill labor shortages with migrant workers.

Inside the house, 22 migrant workers were squeezed into inadequate accommodations, which included both the primary residence and a granny flat. The inspection highlighted the absence of basic amenities such as functioning washing machines, forcing workers to wash their clothes by hand. Additionally, severe plumbing issues were present, including a malfunctioning septic system, no hot water in the sink, and non-functional kitchen appliances, which raised serious concerns regarding the health and safety of the workers living there.

The findings from this inspection bring to light broader issues surrounding the living conditions and treatment of migrant laborers in Australia. With the PALM scheme aimed at regulating the employment and welfare of these workers, such reports of substandard housing prompt necessary discussions about the enforcement of regulations and the role of authorities in ensuring safe and humane working environments for all labor hire workers. This incident serves as an urgent call for regulatory bodies to address and rectify the exploitation faced by vulnerable populations within the labor market.