Will my criminal record affect my mining career?
- Career advice
Having a criminal record makes getting a job difficult. So how do you get a mining job if you have a record?
Can You Get a Mining Job with a Criminal Record?
Anyone with a criminal record knows it can often throw up barriers, even when they’ve worked hard to turn things around.
Whether your criminal record is something from years ago or part of a recent chapter you’re working to move past, finding employment can be tougher than it is for others with similar skills.
So, what about the mining industry? Will a criminal record stop you getting a FIFO mining job?
Not necessarily.
Which Offences Might Prevent You from Working in Mining?
You’ve probably already guessed. The answer isn’t always black-and-white.
Firstly, here are some of the sorts of criminal histories that might cause a problem:
- Murder
- Rape
- Assault
- Stealing
- Fraud
- Serious driving-related charges (especially if you’re going for a job that involves driving)
- Serious drug offences.
How Mining Companies Handle Background Checks
According to Shane Moore, MPI’s General Manager for Client Services and Major Project Delivery, it’s worth bearing in mind that each mining company, and mine site, has a different approach to which convictions they will and won’t accept.
“Ultimately, if there is a question mark over whether a police clearance will be accepted or denied, it will come down to the senior management onsite to give sign-off,” he says. “If any offences have taken place over the last 10 years, they will be scrutinised.”
And that’s the next big factor to consider: when was the criminal record earned?
What to do if Your Record is Over 10 Years Old
Any mining industry employer is going to ask for a National Police Certificate (a “police clearance”) as part of the application process. But that doesn’t always have to be problematic.
If it has been more than 10 years from the date the charges were listed, you can request the charges be removed. Many people either don’t know this or just don’t bother to do it.
Having your old criminal record removed is slightly different in each state. In WA, you can apply for a “spent conviction” which limits the disclosure of older crimes (although it doesn’t actually remove it from your full criminal record.)
It would, however, disappear from your National Police Certificate. But even then, it’s not straightforward. (Your most recent conviction must be more than 10 years or have had a fine of less than $500, including traffic fines.)
A quick Google search will help you find out how to go about it in your state. It’ll likely be on your state’s police, legal aid, or justice department website. And depending on the jurisdiction, there’s also Federal Police.
So, that might help you if your charges are old, but what if they’re not?
How to Talk to Recruiters About Your Criminal History
If you have a criminal history, be honest.
“Be upfront and explain the charges and situation to recruiters so they can discuss with the client before progressing the application,” Shane says. “That way they can find out if it would be acceptable or not.”
Where to Get Help Applying for Mining Jobs Your
If you’re looking for a mining or FIFO job and have skills and experience to contribute to a company, find your next role with MPI.
Alternatively, make sure to register your details with us to ensure you’re considered for upcoming opportunities that match your skill set.
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