As Mayor of the largest mining region in Queensland hosting two 100 percent fly in, fly out (FIFO) mines, Anne Baker has strongly welcomed Labor’s review of the conditions that allow for 100 percent FIFO workforces.
“We are very encouraged by Queensland’s new mining minister Anthony Lynham confirming the review will take place as soon as possible.”
Isaac Regional Council has been a strong advocate for the removal of 100 percent forced FIFO workforce practices in mining operations near established regional centres.
Mayor Anne Baker said the market has changed since 100 percent forced FIFO was first adopted.
“It’s hard to estimate but we know well over 1000 mining jobs have been retrenched in the region over the last twelve months.
“This review can’t happen fast enough, I am sure everyone agrees it doesn’t make sense to continue to lock out local workers from local mines.
“There needs to be genuine employment opportunities for people living in established resource communities and regional centres.”
Before the state election, Isaac Regional Council met with state candidates to discuss their views on 100 percent forced FIFO.
“All sides of politics agree there should be no future 100 percent forced FIFO mines where a mining operation is located near a regional community.
“Isaac communities, resource workers and their families are looking forward to the results of the review on conditions of existing operations.
“At the end of the day Queenslanders must have the choice on where they live and work.
“100 percent FIFO forces locals and otherwise potential residents to move to larger centres or capital cities to take up these employment opportunities.”
