BY JOY OF ASIA
Leaving behind her young daughter and familiar surroundings in the Solomon Islands, Alice Susulu took a bold step toward a better future — and found strength in a new role as an aged care worker at the Torbay Aged Care – Hervey Bay in Queensland, Australia.
Alice’s tale is only one of many that show the true human stories of sacrifice that underlie regional work programmes in Australia.
Originally from Malaita Province, the 32-year-old single mother joined the aged care sector under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme this year for a 4-year contract. Like many others, her goal was simple: provide a better life for her child.
“I’ve always listened to stories from other seasonal workers, and I was inspired. I wanted to do something that would change our lives,” Alice shared.
Her journey began when she applied through the PALM scheme. But instead of heading straight to work, she was selected to undergo aged care training through the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), a key part of Australia’s investment in skills development across the Pacific.
“That training really helped me,” Alice said. “It prepared me for what was to come, but working here was still a big change. The environment, the people—it was all very different from home.”
Adjusting wasn’t easy. It was Alice’s first time living and working overseas, and she faced early challenges, especially adapting to a new workplace culture.
“Working in a new place is much different compared to back home,” she said. “The training environment and the actual job were not the same, and that was one of the biggest challenges I faced.”
But within a month, Alice began to find her footing. With determination, she pushed through and has now settled into her role.
“I’ve adapted, and now I really enjoy my job,” she smiled. “Every day I remind myself why I’m here—my 5-year-old daughter. She’s my biggest motivation.”
Her story is one of quiet courage and perseverance. She says her daughter, though far away, has been her strongest support by encouraging her to go abroad.
“My daughter is my reason. I’m doing this for her and for our future.”
Alice hopes her journey will inspire other women and girls to take up new opportunities.
“Aged care is a wonderful job,” she said. “I encourage all women and girls out there to be responsible and find ways to improve their lives. Don’t be afraid to try something new.”
