Wide Bay Burnett FIFO solution to support remote workers

Published: 27th August 2012

RDA Wide Bay Burnett (Queensland) and the Queensland Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek MP launched the Wide Bay Burnett Fly in Fly Out (FIFO) Coordinator project on Tuesday 14 August 2012.

The FIFO Coordinator project is a two year program that will support the community as the mining sector continues to boom in the region. RDA Wide Bay Burnett is partnering with resource sector companies, registered training organisations and local employment agencies to create viable and sustainable links with remote mining employers who are seeking skilled workers.

RDA Wide Bay Burnett is currently in negotiations with resource sector and airline companies to establish direct flights for workers travelling between Bundaberg and the mining hot spots.

It is expected that direct flights would create a better lifestyle for families and enable more quality time at home. Safer and faster travel by air will reduce the risk of on-road accidents and may deliver travel cost savings—placing the wealth back into the community and driving the prosperity of the region.

The success of the FIFO campaign requires the participation of the Wide Bay Burnett community. In particular, current resource sector workers, community businesses and leaders are all encouraged to support the campaign to establish FIFO direct flights.

RDA Wide Bay Burnett Executive Officer Paul Massingham said that the campaign would boost the region’s employment landscape and future economic prosperity.

“Nearly 3000 workers already travel from the Wide Bay Burnett region to work in the mines or gas fields, with the prospect of thousands more relocating here from other regions,” Mr Massingham said.

“Direct flights will create a stable base for families and attract a community of new residents seeking to tap into the resources sector while enjoying an enviable work-life balance.”

“New residents attracted by the availability and convenience of direct flights will boost the growth of key industry sectors in our region. Tourism, hospitality, construction, retail and professional services will benefit enormously.”

“I strongly encourage resource sector workers to register their details at www.im4fifo.com.au to enable direct flights to help strengthen our community and help grow our economy.”

With the continued support of both the Queensland and Australian governments in delivering the project, the campaign is set to gain strong momentum and a lot of enthusiasm within the region’s workforce.

For more information, visit the RDA Wide Bay Burnett website.

(Pictured above) I’M4FIFO Coordinator Project launch organised by RDA Wide Bay Burnett.