Fiji Health Workers Owed $1.7 Million in Unpaid Overtime

Fiji's healthcare system is facing a significant financial strain, with health workers collectively owed an estimated $1.7 million in unpaid overtime. This revelation, brought to light by Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu in response to a query from Opposition MP Premila Kumar, paints a concerning picture of the ministry's financial management. The unpaid overtime specifically covers the period from January to March 2026, and the final figure is expected to climb as data from key cost centers is still being compiled.

The Ministry of Health's overtime budget, set at $7.5 million annually, has been significantly overspent, reaching approximately $9.9 million. This deficit of $2.4 million underscores a critical issue of resource allocation and financial oversight. While the Minister assured that all overtime payments up to December 2025 have been settled, the current backlog for early 2026 leaves many dedicated health professionals in a precarious financial situation. Major hospitals, including the Colonial War Memorial Hospital and Labasa Hospital, along with specialized institutions and all four health divisions, are among those affected.

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Health workers in Fiji are owed an estimated $1.7 million in unpaid overtime.

In response to the budget shortfall, health workers are now being instructed to take time off in lieu of payment. This measure disproportionately impacts staff on lower pay scales, such as registered nurses, medical imaging technologists, and senior pharmacy technicians, who rely on overtime pay to supplement their incomes. The exhaustion of overtime budgets in eight out of fourteen cost centers indicates a systemic problem that requires urgent attention. From Fiji's perspective, ensuring fair and timely compensation for our frontline health workers is not just a matter of financial prudence but a critical component of maintaining morale and operational efficiency within our vital health services.

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The unpaid overtime primarily affects staff on lower pay bands, including registered nurses, medical imaging technologists, and senior pharmacy technicians.