Isaac mayor Anne Baker weighs in on 100% FIFO debate

ISAAC Regional Council mayor Anne Baker said council "will continue to advocate for flexible workforce arrangements and genuine choice".

WHILE the competition ignites between regional centres to provide Adani's 100% forced FIFO workforce for their Carmichael Mine, Isaac Mayor Anne Baker weighs into the debate to advocate for genuine choice for workers.

"Our council has always rejected unnecessary 100% FIFO, and this case is no different."

"We support the ability for workers to choose where they want to live, and we don't want to see established regional resource communities bypassed for employment opportunities and economic benefit.

"All regional Queenslanders must have an opportunity for employment at the mine including workers from the host region, particularly with three established resource communities located nearby.

"We will continue to advocate for flexible workforce arrangements and genuine choice, 100% of anything is not the solution here.

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"People have been bus-in, bus-out/drive-in, drive-out of Mackay and Rockhampton since 12 hour shifts were adopted in the 90's."

"Carmichael Mine is just 165 km from Clermont and this debate further highlights the urgent need for change to FIFO workpractice."

As Mayor of Queensland's largest mining region, Mayor Baker said Council has put forward the strong case for urgent change to FIFO work practices to the parliamentary inquiry.

"Council's submission covers the degrading effect of 100% non-resident FIFO workforce has on established resource communities."

"Further key points include the health impacts of the FIFO lifestyle on workers and families; incentives for companies choosing a FIFO workforce such as tax settings; and the extent and projected growth of FIFO work practices by region," Mayor Baker said.

Mayor Baker highlighted the downward trend of coal prices since 2012 and ensuing job losses.

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"Over 7,000 state-wide job losses in the mining industry have significant socio-economic impacts for local communities - the time for urgent change is now."

"Council understands the need for FIFO or drive-in, drive-out (DIDO) workforce practices but not the removal of genuine choice through 100% forced FIFO practices that lock out local workers."

"Currently FIFO populations of host communities are not considered in decisions regarding the funding and provision of essential infrastructure and services, including health and emergency services."

"Services within Isaac communities are designed and funded to serve a residential population of 24,755."

"In reality, however, some services cater to 45% more population than they are designed for when considering the full-time equivalent population, inclusive of FIFO and DIDO workers."

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Council strongly supports the 21 recommendations of the 'Cancer of the bush or salvation for our cities?' report which covers a range of topics including mental health and effects on families.

The Queensland Government's inquiry is looking at the impacts of 'FIFO and other long distance commuting work practices in regional Queensland'.

Submissions closed Monday and can be viewed at www.parliament.qld.gov.au.  

Members of Parliament representing the Isaac region include Inquiry Committee Chair Mr Jim Pearce, Member for Mirani; Mr Shane Knuth, Member for Dalrymple; and Mr Lachlan Millar, Member for Gregory. 

Originally published as Isaac mayor Anne Baker weighs in on 100% FIFO debate