Stories from Mums
working in geosciences

Believe in yourselves, you CAN be a field geologist and a mother if you want to. Talk about it with your partner, if you have, or with your support circle, so you're all in the same page and work together. There's no shame on asking for help on anything. If you're confident, plan together with the company too, there's no bad in discussing this at work so you can all plan for your time off and when you return. Try to learn the skills on the way that will help you to find a balance, such as time-management. As a working mother anyway you'll have to prioritize. And if you don't want to do any of this and change your mind and be full time with your family, that's OK too! In the end, just be honest with yourself and with the people you care around you.

— Constanza Jara

If I could offer one piece of advice to women working in the resources industry, it would be to think about flexibility before you actually need it. Career plans can change quickly once children arrive, and having options can make a huge difference. I would also encourage women to know their rights, keep records of important conversations and decisions, and not be afraid to advocate for themselves when needed. While many companies are supportive, not all workplaces handle pregnancy, parental leave or flexible work arrangements as well as they should. Understanding your rights and keeping clear records of important discussions can help ensure you are treated fairly and give you confidence to advocate for yourself when necessary.

— Emilie

Try to find a supportive employer and team, plus a good network of friends.

— Sarah

Think of another possible job in the office if you are FIFO before having kids. And think of what skills you need to improve for that move. It takes years to build a career toward resource geologist for example.

— Charlotte

I think it would be best to anticipate few years in advance by getting a more flexible position. Although that implies a significant changes in career path sometime. It worked well for me, I moved from exploration to academia which gave me the opportunity to keep working while pregnant and now while my children are still little.

— Laura

Reflecting on my experience, my advice to parents preparing to return to work is to be as informed and proactive as possible. Connect with colleagues who have recently returned from parental leave and seek practical advice about their experiences. If you plan to continue breastfeeding after returning to work, visit the workplace facilities you will be using—such as carers' or lactation rooms—before commencing leave so you understand what is available. Find a buddy who you can have a coffee and chat with when you return to work after parental leave. It is also important to plan the practical aspects of your return well in advance. In my organisation, for example, building access, laptop access, and access to carers' rooms all required requests from my leader and were not automatically reinstated. These administrative requirements can create unnecessary stress if they are overlooked. Finally, take the time to understand your workplace rights and entitlements. Familiarise yourself with both your organisation's parental leave policies and the Fair Work Commission's guidance on returning to work, including the legal requirements surrounding flexible work requests. Knowing your rights can help you advocate for yourself and ensure that your transition back to work is as smooth and supportive as it should be.

— Anonymous

Do not think too much :)

— Maria João Batista

Based on my experience, take the risk. We worry and plan when things can change that are beyond our control. Having a family is wonderful, do it and make the changes you need to fit your job around your life. So much of support in your job comes from a manager who will understand what it's like - if you can stick with a good one, do!

— Anonymous

Both geoscience and being a mum are extremely rewarding. If you want to have a family, you should definitely do it!

— Anonymous

You will work it out. Remain ambitious, get resourceful and outsource. Quality time is better than quantity. Upskill yourself. You can do both.

— Kelsey Crook