The Ministry of Policing and Communications is exploring opportunities to strengthen workplace safety, drug prevention measures and employment support programmes through potential collaboration with New Zealand-based organisations.

Discussions were recently held with a visiting delegation comprising HTS Australia Pty Ltd Managing Director and CEO Noel Maharaj, The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) Wellington General Manager Brandon Blanchard, and I’m In Founder and Director Thomas Maharaj.

Talks focused on workplace drug testing systems, employment readiness initiatives and strategies aimed at helping individuals secure and maintain long-term employment.

The Minister for Policing and Communications welcomed the engagement, saying drug-related issues require a comprehensive approach that combines law enforcement, prevention efforts, rehabilitation services and community involvement.

The visiting delegation shared insights from New Zealand’s experience in workplace safety, employer support frameworks and programmes designed to assist people facing barriers to employment.

The ministry says it will continue engaging with relevant stakeholders to identify areas of cooperation that align with Fiji’s priorities in community safety, policing and workforce development.