Inquiry to examine the regional Fly in, Fly out work force
20-September-2011
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Australia has commenced an inquiry into the experience of fly‐in, fly‐out (FIFO) and drive‐in, drive‐out (DIDO) workers in regional Australia.
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton is encouraging submissions to the inquiry which aims to investigate the extent and the potential growth of FIFO and DIDO work practices in regional areas and also the benefits and affects on local communities.
“The mining sector particularly, is renowned for its ability to transport employees in and out of work places especially very remote locations.”
“This inquiry will be valuable in determining the economic and the social impacts of the FIFO and DIDO work force. It will consider the perspective of the local communities who have this type of workforce and will also examine the point of view of the employees who are shipped in for work and their ability to access housing and other services.”
“The Parkes Electorate has a very diverse work force and there are many communities that benefit from the economic activity that comes through mining. However, there are also many communities which are very economically dependent on the continuation of this sector in their communities. This inquiry will examine the long term strategies to ensure economic diversification in these types of communities.”
“It will also examine the potential opportunities for non-mining communities to expand their workforce to incorporate FIFO and DIDO employment opportunities.”
Submissions close on 7 October 2011 and the Committee is keen to hear from a wide range of individuals, groups, communities and employers involved in FIFO/DIDO operations. The Committee will also be travelling throughout regional Australia to hold public hearings and meet with people involved with FIFO/DIDO.
More information and the full terms of reference are available from www.aph.gov.au/ra or by contacting the Committee’s secretariat on 02 6277 4162.