Labor’s FIFO camp undermines Karratha economy: Greens

Tuesday, 5th June 2018

The McGowan Government’s decision to give Woodside the go-ahead to build a new FIFO camp in Karratha is a kick in the guts to the local economy and signals that the damage to mental health caused by FIFO is of little concern to the Government, according to local Greens MP Robin Chapple.

The Bay Village site is opposed by Karratha Council, the Chamber of Commerce and up until recently the ALPs Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel, who back flipped to support the project after Ministers indicated their support.

Greens MP for the Mining and Pastoral region, Robin Chapple, said that this camp does not have the backing of local stakeholders or residents, and Woodside should be working to find a solution that better suits the people of Karratha.

“What this decision highlights is that the Government is all too willing to cave in to corporate interests, when we know for a fact that this decision will hurt the local economy and local residents.

“The local Chamber of Commerce predicts that this camp will have a ‘negative’ impact and could result in up to 69 jobs losses and $197 million lost from the local economy over 30 years. There is already an oversupply of short stay accommodation and housing in Karratha, and this project certainly doesn’t help.

“Labor’s Kevin Michel just last September said that this camp does not strike the right balance. What’s changed? Mr Michel needs to decide whether he is backing the Pilbara or whether he’s just here to make up the numbers for the Government.

“The Greens support workers, and in doing so we recognise that the FIFO model is unsustainable for family life and for mental health. Sustainable job creation means investing in regional WA and creating liveable cities and towns in the North West.

“It has been shown time and time again that FIFO has a profound impact on workers’ health and wellbeing, not to mention that of their families.

“This camp is the wrong choice for Karratha, there are alternatives and both the Government and Woodside would do well to reconsider.

Media Contact: Liam Carter – 0449 151 490

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