ROCKHAMPTON Regional Council is pushing for the region to be included in an expanded list of fly-in, fly-out workforce source communities.

Council makes the recommendation in a written submission to a Queensland parliamentary inquiry into FIFO and other long distance work commuting practices in regional areas.

It condemns the practice of hiring workers from specific postcodes.

Council argues it is damaging to both communities and the companies.

Rockhampton is promoted in the submission, particularly its Rockhampton Connect program.

The program is aimed at supporting FIFO families and council said it streamlines access to housing, education, health, entertainment, sports and social interests.

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The submission encourages companies to help negate impacts on FIFO families and workers through flexible rosters, quality accommodation and food on sites and allowing site visits for families to understand the workplace and employee work life.

Council recommends local, state and Federal governments work together to tackle any FIFO issues.

Councillor Neil Fisher made his own submission, pointing out he has also run a small business contracting its services to resource companies.

He said he was concerned 100% FIFO would stop the best people for the job being hired.

He pointed out travelling difficulties for Rockhampton FIFO miners.

Cr Fisher said a worker living in Rockhampton and working in Moranbah has to fly from Rockhampton to Brisbane then on to Moranbah.

He suggested flights from Rockhampton to Moranbah would be better.

The inquiry will hold hearings in Mackay on June 15, Gladstone on June 18 and Rockhampton on June 19. 

Public hearings

Monday June 15, 2015

Mackay 9-11am

Mackay Grande Suites, 9 Gregory St, Mackay

Moranbah 4-6pm

Moranbah Workers Club, 49 Mills Ave, Moranbah

Tuesday June 16, 2015

Dysart 9-11am

Dysart Civic Centre, 16 Queen Elizabeth Dr, Dysart

Middlemount 2.30-4.30pm

Middlemount Bowls Club, 89 Centenary Dr, Middlemount

Wednesday June 17, 2015

Emerald 9-11am

Mayfair Ridge Tavern, Cnr Gregory Hwy &

Mayfair Dr, Emerald

Blackwater 2.15-4.15pm

Blackwater Civic Centre, 20 Blain St, Blackwater

Thursday June 18, 2015

Moura 9-11am

Coal n Cattle, 63 Dawson Hwy, Moura

Gladstone 3-5pm

Oaks Grand Hotel, 79 Goondoon St, Gladstone

Friday June 19, 2015

Rockhampton 10-noon

Travelodge Rockhampton, 86 Victoria Pde, Rockhampton