Survey suggests FIFO workers not suffering
A survey by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) says majority of fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) staff are satisfied with their lifestyle.
Over 1,800 mine staff completed the survey, about two-thirds of which were FIFO staff.
Eighty-five per cent of respondents rated their physical and mental health as good, very good or excellent.
Eighty-two per cent said they did not wish to change their accommodation arrangements.
Seventy-five per cent were satisfied with their roster and travelling arrangements.
“Workers living residentially, close to mines for example, are very happy with that arrangement,” QRC chief Michael Roche said.
“But equally workers who undertake long distance commuting by car, bus or plane are equally committed to their arrangements.”
The survey will be used in the Queensland parliamentary inquiry into FIFO work practices.
Mr Roche said it could combat some of the negative sentiment put to the inquiry.
“When you put together the views of over 1,800 people, we get a different picture,” Mr Roche said.
“We get a picture of workers who are satisfied with the quality of life, they're satisfied with their physical and mental health, they're satisfied with the standard of employer-provided accommodation, and they're very committed to their current living arrangements.”
The survey results show FIFO workers travel an average of 602 kilometres to work, with more than 60 per cent travelling by car.