NATIONAL resource industry employer group, AREEA, has urged a Queensland inquiry into FIFO practices to consult thoroughly with industry before making recommendations that could negatively impact business and employment opportunities in the state.
AREEA’s submission to the Queensland Parliamentary inquiry: fly-in, fly-out and other long distance commuting work practices in regional Queensland is based on feedback from its member companies which rely on FIFO working arrangements for their operations.
“The resource industry has been a major pillar of the Queensland economy and will continue to play a vital role in Australia’s anticipated emergence as the world’s largest exporter of LNG by 2020,” says AREEA executive director, policy and public affairs, Scott Barklamb.
“FIFO work practices have played an important role in developing the state as a resources investment destination. This benefits all Queenslanders through economic growth, royalties and taxes.
“AREEA urges the inquiry to undertake a sensible, considered and consultative approach to work practices which are critical to many resource operations remaining viable.”
Mr Barklamb says resource employers rely on non-residential employees primarily where their operations are remote from communities. He adds that such arrangements often suit both employers and employees, and numerous resource projects would not survive without FIFO.
“For such employers, utilising FIFO is the only way they can source the range of specialised skills they need, and ensure their employees travel safely to and from work,” he says.
“If FIFO was restricted or banned, many of Queensland’s remote mines would close down. This would be devastating for FIFO workers and their families, as well as the flow-on support sectors, and tax and royalty payments that help fund services for the wider Queensland community.”
Mr Barklamb says the inquiry should consider ‘robust data and evidence’ before coming to any conclusions about the economic, social and health impacts of FIFO.
“Australia’s resource employers take the health and wellbeing of their employees very seriously, and provide health services and support programs to FIFO and non-FIFO employees in Queensland,” he adds.
“Resource organisations that utilise FIFO also continue to invest significant capital and in-kind support into the social fabric of regional communities.
“FIFO is vital for our industry, the Queensland economy and the community. AREEA hopes the inquiry will carefully consider all the facts and consult with industry before making any recommendations that could negatively impact Queensland’s reputation as a resources investment and employment destination.”
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