The Australian mining industry is a cornerstone of the national economy, contributing significantly to export revenues and regional employment. However, this vital sector faces an ongoing challenge: recruiting and retaining skilled staff.
In 2024, the vacancy rate for jobs in the Australian mining sector is approximately five per cent, nearly double the national average, making it one of the highest across various industries. This elevated rate is largely due to the remote locations of many mining jobs, often in areas such as the Western Australian outback, making it challenging to attract workers.
In the recently published ‘KPMG Australian Mining Risk Forecast 2024’, talent attraction and retention continue to be among the top 10 mining risks.
The recruitment and retention challenge
A 2022 report by the Australian Resources and Energy Group (AMMA) highlighted that the mining industry would need approximately 24,000 new workers by 2026 to meet its growth targets.
This projection underscores the industry’s struggle to attract new talent while retaining experienced employees. The challenges are multifaceted, including the remote locations of mining sites, the demanding nature of the work, and the competition from other sectors.
The role of onsite village experience
The quality of living conditions at onsite villages plays a pivotal role in recruitment and retention.
Unlike traditional workplaces, mining operations often require employees to live onsite for extended periods, making the living environment critical for job satisfaction. High-quality amenities and recreational options can significantly enhance worker morale and retention rates.
Strategies for improved onsite living
Recognising the importance of a positive living environment, some of Australia’s largest mining companies have made targeted investments in their onsite facilities.
Mineral Resources (MinRes) is one of these companies. MinRes offers a range of entertainment options including movies, TV shows and channels to enhance the quality of life for their staff.
Additionally, MinRes has implemented comprehensive village communication tools to inform employees about amenities and services, such as gym facilities, social events, and dining options. This proactive approach improves daily living conditions and fosters community and engagement among the workforce.
The impact of Swift Networks
Swift Networks, a leading provider of entertainment and engagement solutions for remote sites, significantly enhances the living conditions of mining workers.
Available in thousands of rooms across MinRes villages, Swift Access offers a comprehensive suite of services, including the latest movies on demand, a catalogue of over 1600 movies, TV shows, and secure casting for a better-than-at-home entertainment experience.
Moreover, Swift has developed tools to improve communication within the village. Its systems allow companies to broadcast important announcements, promote social events, and provide updates on services and facilities available. These features help create a cohesive community where employees feel informed and engaged.
Why is this important?
The Australian mining industry faces significant challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled staff.
As the demand for minerals continues to grow, companies must prioritise the living conditions of their onsite employees to maintain a stable workforce.
Investments in high-quality entertainment, recreational facilities, and effective communication tools are essential strategies to achieve this goal. Companies like MinRes and Roy Hill have set a benchmark by recognising the importance of these factors and taking proactive measures to enhance the onsite living experience.
By focusing on the quality of life for their employees, mining companies can build a highly engaged workforce that feels valued and appreciated, ultimately leading to better recruitment and retention outcomes.
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