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Team Belongingness and Wellbeing for FIFO workers

FIFO work can be both rewarding and challenging. In Western Australia, around 30% of mining workers experience high or very high psychological distress, often linked to depression, anxiety, and increased risk of workplace accidents. A growing body of evidence shows that feeling a strong sense of team belongingness - being connected, included, and supported by colleagues – can help to protect worker wellbeing and mental health.

This MARS Centre project explored how team belongingness shapes the wellbeing of FIFO workers using both surveys and interviews at a remote WA mine site. The findings revealed that building a strong sense of team belonging helps FIFO workers feel more supported, resilient, and connected. Inclusive team initiatives can support wellbeing, reduce isolation, and improve mental health outcomes, especially for business partners. Specifically:

  • A strong sense of belonging to work teams is directly linked to higher wellbeing, resilience, and job satisfaction among FIFO workers.
  • Business partners reported significantly lower levels of team belongingness and wellbeing than client employees, highlighting a gap in inclusion and support.
  • Teams often serve as “surrogate families” for FIFO workers, providing critical social support that buffers against isolation, stress, and mental health risks.

Practical recommendations emerging from this research include:

  • Investing in initiatives that strengthen team belongingness (e.g., team activities, shared social spaces, collective fitness classes).
  • Ensuring business partners are fully included in team culture, communication, and wellbeing programs.
  • Promoting awareness and uptake of psychological assistance programs through visible communication and peer testimonials.
  • Providing regular manager training to enhance psychosocial safety, support team cohesion, and use team networks as pathways for early mental health support.

By prioritising belongingness, mining organisations can help reduce isolation, build resilience, and improve wellbeing across the FIFO workforce, particularly for business partners who may face greater risks.

Read the full report here.

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