"Please be aware that there are no agents registered in PNG to recruit for the Seasonal Worker Program or Pacific Labour Scheme. Only the government of Papua New Guinea's Labour Mobility Unit can offer you work in Australia under these programs; and there are no upfront fees to participate," a notice on the High Commission's website warned.

 

It went on: "Please be wary of any individual claiming to facilitate work in Australia. Prospective workers should not, under any circumstances, pay money to individuals promising work.

 

"Anyone who is approached by someone claiming to facilitate work in Australia in exchange for money should contact the Labour Mobility Unit immediately (swp@treasury.gov.pg or PNG Labour Mobility Unit on Facebook) to report the incident."

 

The Pacific Labour Scheme is an Australian government initiative that connects workers with Australian businesses and supports the economic prosperity of nine Pacific islands including Papua New Guinea.