FIFO workers and their families now have better access to information on where to get help and support, thanks to a new resource launched by mental health minister, Helen Morton.
The new ‘This FIFO Life’ website was developed by the Mental Illness Fellowship of Western Australia (MIFWA).
Mrs Morton said it highlighted the challenges of the FIFO lifestyle and the strengths and resilience of FIFO workers and their families.
“The State Government is committed to reducing Western Australia’s suicide rate, which unfortunately stands at around one person losing their life to suicide every day,” she said.
“FIFO workers have unique needs and they will be recognised as a priority group in the new multi-year suicide prevention strategy currently under development.”
The Minister said MIFWA received $120,000 from the State Government to develop ‘This FIFO Life’ and undertook considerable consultation with workers and their families to identify where more information was needed to raise awareness of mental health.
“The result is a fantastic website with blogs, articles and links about many different issues relating to mental health and FIFO workers,” she said.
“It also includes short videos of FIFO workers and family members highlighting issues and sharing ideas, as well as a section on where to get help.”