Positive step in promoting and protecting mental health of workers in the resources industry.
As the peak body representing all professionals in the global resources sector, the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) welcomes the Western Australian Government’s introduction of Australia’s first code of practice for FIFO workers.
The new code released yesterday provides a number of recommendations to limit the risks associated with FIFO work. This included diversifying daily routines, improving accommodation experiences to give workers greater ease, and a renewed focus on education programmes to alert managers and other all workers to the risks associated with FIFO work, including how these can be minimised.
AusIMM CEO Stephen Durkin welcomed the new code and supported the move to extend added support to FIFO workers.
“Investing in mental health and wellbeing at work generates a positive financial return on investment. The new code encourages these positive mental health outcomes for an integral and sometimes susceptible, resources workforce,” Mr Durkin said.
Mining accounted for 30% of Western Australia’s gross state product (GSP) in 2017-2018, adding $79 billion gross value to the economy and the sector employs over 111,800 people within Western Australia which includes a large FIFO workforce
Mr Durkin said that AusIMM will continue to work with industry, educators and government to represent the interests of all resources professionals and ensure a healthy workplace culture.
“Providing support for professionals to lead the way in fostering an inclusive and healthy workplace culture is critical if we want to attract and retain the best and brightest professionals to our industry.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health concerns Beyond Blue and Lifeline provide crisis help and support. AusIMM’s conference charity partner Rural and Remote Mental Health develops and implements mental health awareness, prevention and intervention programs specifically for rural and remote communities.
#resources #mentalhealth #fifo