A study has found that even whopping pay cheques are not enough to keep some workers at the coalface in regional areas.

Research from the University of Queensland says high salaries are no longer enough to retain good workers in remote locations, with many fly in-fly out (FIFO) workers putting greater value in personal space and quiet time with family and friends.

A six-month study by UQ’s Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI) surveyed workers to find out what factors influence the retention and wellbeing of FIFO workers in the resources sector. It found that the people employed for rough jobs in harsh country just want some time to relax and unwind.

“Contrary to popular assumptions that employees enjoy the ‘resort feel' of some modern FIFO accommodation, our findings suggest that FIFO workers are more interested in quiet, comfortable rooms,” said Mary Anne Barclay from the Centre for Social Responsibility in Mining (CSRM).

“They prefer good phone and internet connections to swimming pools or high-end dining and recreation facilities... the ability to connect with family and friends is important for the psychological health of FIFO workers – a sense of belonging reduces stress and loneliness, and reassures the workers that they play an important role in the lives of the people closest to them,” Ms Barclay said.

Researchers interviewed around 300 mostly well-educated, mid-career professionals in technical and managerial roles.

“This study is unique for this industry in that 70 per cent of respondents held a university degree and 40 per cent were female,” Associate Professor Kirsch said.

“While confirming many of the findings from previous research, our study provides unique insights into the challenges that managerial workers face in the FIFO work experience.”

The report, which is available here, highlights a number of opportunities to improve quality of life and job satisfaction for those who feel displaced by their positions.