what is a fifo job in australia

[LaPeter]

I’ve been working FIFO in Australia for over five years now, so I can tell you exactly what it means. A FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) job is a work arrangement where you’re flown to a remote site—often a mine, oil rig, or construction camp—for a set block of days, then flown back home for time off. The most common rosters are 2 weeks on / 1 week off, or 14 days on / 14 days off, though some companies use 8/6 or 3/1 patterns. You live on-site during the swing, with accommodation, meals, and laundry provided. The work itself is physically demanding—think heavy machinery operation, drilling, maintenance, or logistics—and the shifts are long, typically 12 hours a day, 7 days a week while you’re there.

The biggest draw is the money. Entry-level FIFO roles like a utility worker or offsider can pay AU$80,000–$100,000 annually, while skilled trades or operators easily hit $130,000–$200,000. The catch is the lifestyle. You’re away from family and friends for up to half the year, and the isolation can be tough. The mine camps are self-contained with gyms, rec rooms, and sometimes a bar, but you’re still in a remote area with limited internet or phone reception. Fatigue is a real issue, and the constant travel—flights, buses, long drives—adds stress. That said, the time off is generous. When I’m home, I have entire weeks to spend with my family, travel, or work on side projects. For the right person, FIFO is a fast track to savings and career growth, but it’s not for everyone. You need resilience, a good routine, and a supportive family.

Typical FIFO Roster	Days On	Days Off	Annual Salary Range (AU$)
2/1	14	7	$80,000–$150,000
14/14	14	14	$90,000–$200,000
8/6	8	6	$85,000–$140,000
3/1	21	7	$100,000–$180,000

I’d recommend anyone considering FIFO to do a trial swing first—some companies offer short-term contracts. Talk to current workers, know your own limits, and be honest about whether you can handle the isolation. It’s a great opportunity, but it demands a specific mindset.

[TannerLynn]

I’ve recruited hundreds of FIFO workers for Australian mining companies, and I always tell candidates: FIFO is not a job, it’s a lifestyle. The most common misconception is that it’s just about the high pay. In reality, the turnover rate can be high—around 30% in the first year—because people underestimate the loneliness and physical toll. From a recruiter’s perspective, we look for resilience, a clean drug test, and a valid driver’s license. Entry-level roles often require a white card (construction safety) and a standard medical. The market is competitive, but companies are desperate for reliable workers, especially in WA and Queensland. If you’re willing to work hard and commit, you can move up quickly—from labourer to operator in 18 months. I’ve seen people save $50,000 in a year, then buy a house. That’s the real appeal.

[Johnathan]

As an HR manager at a large Australian mine site, I oversee FIFO rotations daily. The key to making FIFO sustainable is roster design and mental health support. We’ve moved from 14/14 to 7/7 rosters in some areas because studies show shorter swings reduce fatigue and improve safety. We also provide free counselling and on-site wellness programs. From a business perspective, FIFO is cost-effective compared to building permanent towns, but retention is a constant challenge. We spend heavily on pre-employment assessments—medical checks, psychometric tests, and even fitness evaluations. The average tenure for a FIFO worker in our company is 2.5 years, but those who stay longer often move into supervisory roles. If you’re applying, show you understand the lifestyle and have a plan for your time off.

[StBrooklyn]

I’ve advised job seekers on FIFO careers for years, and my biggest tip is: treat it like a career, not a quick cash grab. Yes, the pay is excellent, but the real value comes from the experience and certifications you gain. Many FIFO workers earn heavy vehicle licences, rigging tickets, or even trade qualifications while on the job. I recommend starting with a labour hire agency that specialises in mining, like Programmed or WorkPac. They often take on green workers and provide the required safety training. Also, consider the location—FIFO from Perth to the Pilbara is common, but flights from Brisbane to the Bowen Basin are shorter. Budget for the upfront costs: medicals, licences, and travel to the airport. And always have a backup plan—commodity prices can drop, and sites shut down overnight.

[StAnna]

My husband has been FIFO for three years, so I