Is it normal to get stuffed around with start dates?

Accommodation is a big industry issue with so many people working in small remote places, it happens all the time, especially if accommodation is in short supply on site.There are flights, accommodation and rosters to contend with on every job. If you have signed an EBA or a contract you are entitled to be paid from the date it was signed. Don't panic, it is standard industry practice and you may as well get used to it. Welcome to the mineral life.