Criminal Records Bill clears path for jobs and second chances

Fiji's Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh, announced that the newly passed Criminal Records Bill 2026 will remove significant barriers for individuals with minor offenses seeking to rebuild their lives and secure employment. This includes opening doors to overseas job opportunities.

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The newly passed Criminal Records Bill 2026 will remove barriers stopping people with minor offences from rebuilding their lives and securing jobs.

Singh explained that many Fijians have been excluded from popular overseas employment programs, such as Australia's Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme and New Zealand's Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) programme, due to minor offenses committed years ago. Cases like breaches of COVID-19 curfews, not wearing masks, or minor teenage altercations have continued to negatively impact individuals long after they have served their penalties.

The Minister stressed that the legislation is not intended to overlook serious crimes or excuse criminal behavior. Instead, it is designed to expunge minor offenses, enabling people to reintegrate into society, earn a living, and support their families with dignity. He believes these changes will also stimulate Fiji's economy by increasing participation in international labor mobility schemes and strengthening remittance flows.

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Too many Fijians have been locked out of Australia’s PALM scheme and New Zealand’s RSE programme because of minor offences committed years ago.

Singh emphasized that whether individuals work locally or abroad, the ultimate goal is to help them lead meaningful lives and contribute positively to their families and communities. The Criminal Records Bill 2026 was recently passed by Parliament, marking a significant step towards providing second chances for many Fijians.

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The legislation is not about wiping away serious crimes or excusing criminal behaviour. It is designed to expunge minor offences so people can reintegrate into society, earn a living and support their families with dignity.