Workers from the Pacific Islands have been used, and exploited, by the Australian state and companies, since the late 1800's.

This relationship has not changed in the 21st century with Pacific workers being exploited via new work programs that seek to take advantage of the widespread poverty present in many Pacific Islands.

We talk to Nic Maclellan, a human rights activist and independent journalist, on some of the ways that Pacific workers are trying to protect themselves while working in Australia, as well as the continuing threat of climate change to many Pacific island communities.

Asia Pacific Currents provides updates of labour struggles and campaigns from the Asia Pacific region. It is produced by Australia Asia Worker Links, in the studio of 3CR Radio in Melbourne, Australia