Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown recently paid a courtesy visit to the office of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers and Committee on Public Services Chairperson Senator Raffy Tulfo.
During the meeting, they discussed the situation of the estimated 400,000 Filipino workers currently employed and living in Australia, many of whom are nurses, skilled workers, and professionals in the healthcare industry.
Ambassaor Innes-Brown commended the strong work performance of Filipino workers in Australia and acknowledged their significant contribution to the Australian economy. He noted that Australia continues to require more skilled workers and expressed preference in hiring more Filipinos.
Citing the excellent treatment of OFWs in Australia, Senator Tulfo highlighted his office has so far not received reports of abuse or mistreatment of Filipino workers by Australian employers.
The ambassador also noted more Filipinos are enrolling in master’s and doctorate scholarship programs at Australian universities. While pursuing their studies, they are given opportunities to work and bring their families with them—an initiative welcomed by the senator.
In addition, the ambassador discussed ongoing Australian government projects designed to ensure Filipino scholars can immediately apply their specialized training upon returning to the Philippines. These include programs such as specialized agricultural courses that directly benefit the country.
On defense and maritime cooperation, the ambassador emphasized the Philippines remains a priority country for Australia in strengthening bilateral ties. He noted Australia aims to further expand military training exercises with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
Referring to the drones donated by the Australian government to PCG, Senator Tulfo said, “These will greatly enhance maritime patrols and territorial monitoring in the West Philippine Sea, as well as support efforts to ease tensions and promote regional stability.
Ambassador Innes-Brown likewise mentioned the expansion of Australian investments in the Philippines in areas such as infrastructure, education, trade, renewable energy, and agriculture. These investments are expected to generate employment for approximately 45,000 Filipinos nationwide.
In closing, Senator Tulfo committed to continue working closely with Ambassador Innes-Brown to further strengthen the strong and longstanding relationship between the Philippines and Australia.
