Boom Coaching and Consulting
PERTH, Australia, 12 February 2026 — Australia’s mining and construction sectors, heavily reliant on fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers, are facing a mental health crisis. Research from Beyond Blue reveals that one in three FIFO workers experience moderate to severe psychological distress. Despite high incomes, many also struggle with financial stress. In response, Sharon Briggs, founder of Boom Coaching and Consulting (BoomCC), has introduced the Clear & Free Method, a coaching program aimed at helping FIFO and shift workers improve their mental health, financial stability, and overall lifestyle.
The Clear & Free Method emerges as a crucial intervention as the mining and resources sector employs thousands of FIFO workers who earn substantial salaries yet face significant wellness challenges. According to MATES in Construction, FIFO workers are 70% more likely to suffer from mental health issues compared to other professions. Beyond Blue’s research supports this, highlighting the prevalence of psychological distress among these workers.
Mental Health and Financial Strain in the FIFO Sector
While earning over $100,000 annually, many FIFO workers report financial stress and lifestyle inflation, which hampers their long-term stability. The Western Australian Government has noted this paradox, where high earnings do not necessarily translate to financial security. Additionally, Safe Work Australia reports that one in four Australians work shifts, often with inadequate workplace mental health support.
Briggs’ Clear & Free Method adopts an evidence-based, industry-specific approach to wellbeing, providing FIFO workers with practical tools to mitigate burnout, enhance relationships, and achieve financial resilience. With extensive experience working with FIFO individuals and families, Briggs emphasizes that the issue extends beyond physical fatigue.
“Many FIFO workers earn good money but feel stuck on a treadmill, burned out, disconnected from family and friends, and unsure how to make their income work for them,” Briggs said. “This program gives them a clear plan, not just for today, but for the life they want long-term.”
Core Focus Areas of the Clear & Free Method
The program targets three main areas: mental health and resilience, financial clarity, and family and lifestyle balance. Briggs explains that the initiative is not just about personal wellbeing, but also about employee retention. “Workers who feel balanced and financially secure stay longer, perform better, and strengthen team culture,” she added.
Enrollment for the Clear & Free Method is now open nationwide, offering a lifeline to those in need of support. For more information, interested parties can visit Sharon Briggs Coaching.
Background and Industry Context
The announcement comes as the FIFO workforce continues to grow, driven by Australia’s booming mining and construction sectors. Historically, the FIFO model has been both a blessing and a curse, offering lucrative opportunities while imposing significant personal sacrifices. The isolation and demanding schedules have long been recognized as contributing factors to mental health issues among these workers.
Experts have pointed out that while the financial rewards are substantial, the lack of stability and support systems often leads to a cycle of burnout and financial mismanagement. The Clear & Free Method aims to break this cycle by equipping workers with the skills and knowledge needed to manage their finances and mental health proactively.
Looking Forward: Implications and Next Steps
This development follows a broader trend of addressing mental health in high-stress industries. As more companies recognize the importance of employee wellbeing, programs like the Clear & Free Method could set a precedent for others to follow. The move represents a shift towards a more holistic approach to employee care, one that acknowledges the complex interplay between financial stability and mental health.
As the program gains traction, it may prompt other sectors to adopt similar strategies, ultimately leading to a healthier, more productive workforce. The implications for the mining and construction industries are significant, potentially reducing turnover rates and improving overall job satisfaction among FIFO workers.
For now, the Clear & Free Method stands as a beacon of hope for those struggling under the weight of their demanding roles, offering a pathway to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
