Inpex to scrap FIFO workforce model for the NT and WA

INPEX has announced it will change its fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) operations workforce to a locally-based model for its Darwin Ichthys LNG development.

Inpex has announced it will change its fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) operations workforce to a locally-based model for its Darwin Ichthys LNG development, pictured. Picture: Supplied

INPEX has announced it will change its fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) operations workforce to a locally-based model for its Darwin Ichthys LNG development.

By the end of 2023, all employees working at Inpex’s onshore facilities in Darwin will live in the Northern Territory and workers on their offshore facilities will reside in Western Australia.

Inpex vice president corporate Bill Townsend said the transition would take place over three years to provide certainty through a challenging period for the LNG industry.

“Our operations workforce is dispersed throughout Australia,” he said.

“Under the new model, our onshore operations workforce will reside in the Northern Territory and our offshore workforce will be fully based in Western Australia.

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“The three-year time frame is important because we want our people to make informed decisions and not be rushed.

“We realise individual circumstances vary and people need adequate time to consider the new arrangements, and to relocate if necessary.”

Mr Townsend said COVID-19 had exposed some of the challenges of a FIFO workforce and the move to a fully localised workforce would improve stability for Inpex’s personnel.

“There are benefits for our workforce and the company,” he said. “These include more opportunities for people to engage directly with their teammates, family and the community; increased flexibility and growth of our workforce talent with further investment into training and apprenticeships; and an increased focus on leadership development strategies.”

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Mr Townsend said personnel relocating to WA and the NT would have access to financial support for housing purchases and sales.