News

Temporary visa holders highlight gaps in health care

By Ree Peric

Mar 30, 2023

Pacific Island seasonal workers from across the Goulburn Valley gathered at Point of Difference Studio to discuss underlying issues with the Australian healthcare system with representatives from the Victorian Department of Health.

Addressing community: Niko Ifopo starts the night off on behalf of POD Studio. Photo by Ree Peric

At a health and information session hosted in Mooroopna by Point of Difference Studio on Wednesday, March 29, seasonal workers voiced their concerns and shared their experiences with their lack of access to basic healthcare with representatives from the Victorian Department of Health.

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Members from the Samoan, Fijian, Tongan, Papuan and Ni-Vanuatu community gathered to complete an activity, answering nine questions, centred around the ease and accessibility of healthcare and how the system could be changed to better suit the needs of this hard-working community.

Communal: Workers share their experiences. Photo by Ree Peric

Department of Health representatives John Kouvelas and Jomy Jose were presented with the facts around issues that temporary visa holders often face.

These included lack of information, language barriers and financial constraints, leading to delayed or inadequate treatment, which could ultimately lead to more severe health problems and increased healthcare costs down the road.

The ability to access healthcare is a basic human right, regardless of one’s immigration status.

Coming to an understanding: Workers from Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu share the table with translator Junior Letele to hear information in Pidgin. Photo by Ree Peric

However, attendees said this right was often denied to temporary visa holders.

With the help of translators Leaisa Pele, Maka Atu and Junior Letele, and volunteering scribes, all the seasonal workers were able to answer the questions and present their issues to the health representatives.

Point of Difference Studio workers and volunteers were quick on their feet, organising the program and cooking the free dinner that was provided for everyone who attended.

Further health sessions will be held over the coming months.