The controversy has provoked a social media storm in Vanuatu and caused consternation in Canberra, with fears the episode will damage the reputation of the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP).
The ABC reports the federal government has energetically championed the SWP, arguing it provides Pacific Island workers with valuable employment opportunities while helping Australian farms grappling with labour shortages.
But on Tuesday (local time), High Commissioner Samson Fare took to social media to complain about the treatment of Ni-Vanuatu workers in the town of Bundaberg.
