Thanks primarily to a booming mining industry, fly-in fly-out (FIFO) jobs are becoming increasingly common in Australia and for Brisbane families. This unique lifestyle can bring many rewards, but it can also have its challenges for families.
With FIFO workers being away for long periods of time, it can be important to connect with others who are going through a similar situation in order to build a network of support around you. Luckily in Brisbane, there are many support options for FIFO families.
Facebook Groups for FIFO Families in Brisbane
Social media, in particular Facebook can be a convenient way to connect with people from the comfort of your own home. It also takes away the anxiety many people feel when meeting new people.
There are a number of Facebook groups specifically for FIFO families. The main aim of these groups is to connect and support like-minded people. While some groups may be Australia-wide, after a while you may connect with people nearby and be able to form your own private group.
Here are some of the groups we have found, but you can also search for via Facebook.
FIFO Connections Brisbane
FIFO Connections Brisbane is a not-for-profit organisation that provides social and emotional support and services to FIFO wives, girlfriends, families and female workers. It is a group for events and information for Brisbane members. Click here to find out more and join the group.
FIFO/DIDO Mums Support Australia
This Facebook group was created to provide support and friendship to mums, mums-to-be or those who wish to become mums in the future and are part of the FIFO/DIDO industry. It is a safe space to ask question, seek feedback and advice on anything big or little relating to life as a FIFO/DIDO family. Click here to join FIFO/DIDO Mums Support Australia
FIFO Workers, Wives and Partners
FIFO Workers, Wives and Partners has both a private group and public Facebook page. The private group is safe space to ask questions, seek advice and share information privately regarding the FIFO industry and the lives attached to it. The public page shares generalised information, memes, events and articles that may interest FIFO workers and families. Click here to join FIFO Workers, Wives and Partners private group or you can check out the FIFO Workers, Wives and Partners Facebook page.
Counselling Services
In some situations, it can be appropriate and helpful to get professional support to help your family and your relationship to cope with the pressures of the FIFO lifestyle. Options in Brisbane which offer these services include:
The Hart Centre
The Hart Centre has useful information resources on FIFO and DIDO (drive-in, drive-out) relationships. They also have relationship psychologists in locations all around Brisbane who can help with any specific problems you may have. You can even do phone or Skype sessions, so you can get help even when apart. Visit thehartcentre.com.au for further details.
FIFO Blogs to Follow
When FIFO becomes part of your life it’s important to continuously focus on what you are grateful for and surround yourself with positive like-minded people.
It is okay to feel lonely from time to time and it’s okay to not be okay as long as you know there are support services out there who can give you strategies to rise.
There are several FIFO partners who have chosen to set up blogs to share their stories and in turn help people like you to feel like you aren’t alone.
The Fifo Wife
The Fifo Wife blog shares insights on FIFO life from a wife/mother who has been in the thick of the FIFO lifestyle for over 15 years. From parenting advice, practical tips and tricks and everything in between, The Fifo Wife has you covered.
My Fifo Family
My Fifo Family allows parents to educate their children about their Fifo lifestyle through a series of fun and engaging products and resources.
Other Helpful Resources
FIFO Focus – a team of psychologists and behavioural consultants working toward minimising psychosocial risks associated with FIFO employment and promoting wellbeing for FIFO workers.
When living the FIFO/DIDO life try and set traditions to support your lifestyle rather than fighting to pretend it isn’t happening. Let your children’s educators know, let your friends and family know and ask for help when you need it.
Brisbane FIFO is a massive loyal community of families all facing a commonality which bonds them together uniquely. Use that bond to forge friendships and grow stronger. You have got this!
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