Ashburton Council support call to move away from intrastate fly in, fly out workforce

Shire of Ashburton Council pledged their support to the State Government’s campaign to stop intrastate FIFO arrangements at this week’s Ordinary Meeting of Council.

Taking a similar stance to that of our neighbouring Pilbara local governments, the Shire of Ashburton is encouraging resource companies to move away from using interstate fly in, fly out (FIFO) workers and move towards employing WA-based workers.

Shire President Kerry White acknowledged that the high levels of intrastate workers was unsustainable, especially in the midst of COVID-19.

“We’ve always known regional WA is a great place to work, live and invest and encourage resource companies to not only consider relocating their workers from the eastern states, but also those within our own state to the North West.

“The negative impacts of FIFO are well known from mental health to fatigue, from a lack of sense of community to reduced liveability of the places workers fly into.

“Relocating workers and their families gives workers the opportunity to live with their families, become involved in their community and contributes to better mental health outcomes.

“An increased residential based workforce also supports the growth of our local economy and local businesses and jobs in our towns.

“Investment in regional communities has never been as critical as we continue to navigate the effects of COVID-19 on our state and nation.

“We have seen a series of announcements that support the development of regional WA as part of economic stimulus measures to combat the effects of lock down and social restrictions”, said Councillor White.

 “The Shire of Ashburton is the powerhouse of the Western Australian economy if not the nation, contributing 38.1% of the Pilbara’s gross regional product.

“With that in mind we are also seeking support for the continued growth of our four towns, Tom Price, Onslow, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica, to make them desirable places for people to relocate to and that offer vibrant communities with quality infrastructure, economic and employment opportunities and social and connected populations”.

For media information contact:

Alison Lennon - Manager Media and Communications, Shire of Ashburton

M: 0409 314 140 | E: [email protected]

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