State puts FIFO under spotlight
A
s the WA and Queensland governments prepare the
findings of two separate reviews on fly in, fly out
workers amid a resources downturn, support network
FIFO Families has warned the industry not to be
distracted from the key issues.
In June, the WA Government will outline the findings of its inquiry into the
link between FIFO work arrangements and suicide; while the Queensland
Government is reviewing two 100 per cent FIFO operations to determine the
allowable percentage of FIFO workers on mining sites in the state.
The use of 100 per cent FIFO workforces in Queensland has been a
controversial issue for some time, with many arguing the practice takes
opportunities away from locals.
FIFO Families’ founder Nicole Ashby highlighted the additional “stress and
anxiety” the publicity surrounding these reviews could cause for workers and
their families, recommending that the focus instead remain on how best to
balance individual, community and commercial needs on remote mining
locations.
“It is easy to forget that some 100,000 Australian families have adapted their
lives to cope with the disruption, dislocation and stresses that come with a key
family member being away from the family unit for an extended period on a
regular basis,” Ms Ashby said.
“In the current economic conditions, we are already seeing a number of
workers lose their jobs and have their rosters cut. Creating further uncertainty
regarding the potential for more of these workers to have to pick up their lives
and relocate to remote communities or lose their jobs altogether… adds to
existing stress levels and concern.
“What we need is a collaborative approach that can ensure that the interests of
energy and resources organisations, their workers, families and remote
communities can all be served if/when the boom times return.
Published By Rachel Dally-Watkins The Australian Mining Review May 12, 2015