AN INQUIRY into the suicides of fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers will be undertaken by the Education and Health Standing Committee.
The committee will examine the reasons behind the suicides of FIFO workers and will recommend initiatives that industry and government can take to reduce their prevalence.
WA Labor Leader Mark McGowan said an initial report was expected by the end of the year.
Calls for an inquiry have mounted over recent weeks following the death of nine FIFO workers in the past year.
“We just can’t stand by and do nothing when we are faced with the tragedy of nine deaths in a year,” Mr McGowan said.
“I know the mining industry is concerned with the health and welfare of its employees and I look forward to the committee working with WA’s mining industry on this important issue.
“I am confident this inquiry will examine the issues surrounding mental health and help avert future suicides.
“If it saves just one life it will be worth it.”
Mr McGowan said the inquiry was not “about stigmatizing FIFO workers or attacking the mining industry.”
“It’s about supporting the industry and its workers, who are incredibly important to our community,” he said.
“People need to know that there is somewhere they can go if they are experiencing difficulties.
“They also need to know there will be no consequence or risk to their employment if they reach out for help.
“I want to thank the Liberal and National parties for their support for WA Labor’s initiative to help protect WA workers.
“I think Western Australians appreciate it when their politicians work together.”
Earlier this month Mental Health Minister Helen Morton said the Mental Health Commission had found FIFO and drive-in drive-out workers were especially vulnerable to factors known to contribute to suicide, such as social isolation and relationship stress.
“Our effort is focused on taking action on the ground now, action that will have real impacts based on the wealth of information already gathered on how best to support workers,” she said.
“To assist in this, I have recently appointed Andrew Harding, chief executive at Rio Tinto Iron-ore to the Ministerial Council for Suicide Prevention.
“Mr Harding will bring the FIFO/DIDO perspective to the council and its action planning and implementation.”
She said results of a recent research report which surveyed 924 workers had informed plans for more support services.
Ms Morton has been contacted for further comment.
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