The upcoming 2026 Census in Australia presents an intriguing challenge: how to accurately capture the nation's 'ghost population' of fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers, particularly in regional mining communities. This issue, which has sparked concern among local leaders, highlights the complexities of modern workforces and the impact they have on local infrastructure and services.
The FIFO Phenomenon
In cities like Kalgoorlie-Boulder, the rise of FIFO work practices has been nothing short of remarkable. The airport, once designed for 100,000 annual passengers, now handles over half a million movements, a testament to the city's mining boom. Mayor Glenn Wilson, who chairs the Australian Mining Cities Alliance, has been vocal about the need to include these 'ghost populations' in the census, arguing that an accurate count is crucial for securing funding and addressing infrastructure strains.
A Question of Residence
The census, with its 'usual residence' concept, aims to capture where individuals spend more than six months of the year. For FIFO workers, this can be a tricky question. Robert Powell, who works a two-week on, one-week off roster in Port Hedland, feels the census should reflect the reality of his situation: "Home is home, work is work." He suggests adding more questions to the census to better account for these unique work arrangements.
Beyond Data: A Sense of Belonging
Cheryl Yam, an organisational psychiatrist, adds a deeper layer to the discussion. For FIFO workers, the question isn't just about where they sleep, but where they belong. The remote camp may not feel like home, yet it's where they spend a significant portion of their lives. This raises interesting psychological and sociological questions about identity and belonging in the modern workforce.
The Bigger Picture
The census data will have a significant impact on regional development. As Daiva Gillam, CEO of Regional Development Australia's Pilbara, notes, "Every worker needs to be counted." This is not just about funding and infrastructure, but also about recognizing the contributions and needs of these transient populations. The census results, scheduled for release in June 2027, will provide valuable insights into the changing face of regional Australia and the challenges it faces.
Personally, I find this topic fascinating. It highlights the evolving nature of work and the need for our data collection methods to keep pace with these changes. The census, a snapshot of a nation's population, must adapt to capture the complexities of modern life, especially in regions experiencing rapid growth and unique work practices.
