FBT change calls renewed

Calls to change the Fringe Benefits Tax to discourage the fly-in, fly-out practice have been renewed by Nationals Member for the Mining and Pastoral Region Dave Grills in the wake of the Federal election.

He said the prevalence of FIFO workforces on resource projects in regional WA could be attributable to the application of the FBT to regional accommodation.

Mr Grills said the FBT required an urgent overhaul to ensure the long-term sustainability of inland communities.

“Regional development efforts are hindered by the ongoing use of FIFO work practices,” he said.

“This practice discourages workers from living in existing towns and contributing to the local economy and community.”

Mr Grills said WA’s regional local governments needed to band together to lobby Federal politicians to reform the tax.

A 2013 House of Representatives standing committee report recommended changes to fringe benefits'''' to reduce the use of FIFO workforces and encourage the development of regional communities.