Everything you need to know about Fly-In Fly-Out work in Australia’s booming mining sector
What is FIFO Work?
FIFO stands for Fly-In Fly-Out – a work arrangement where employees are flown to remote job sites for a set period, then flown home for time off. It’s the backbone of Australia’s mining and resources industry, allowing operations to run 24/7 in some of the most remote locations on Earth.
The FIFO model exists because many of Australia’s richest mineral deposits are located hundreds or thousands of kilometres from major population centres. Instead of building permanent towns (which was common historically), companies fly workers in from cities like Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide.
The basics:
- Workers fly to remote mine sites for their “swing” (work period)
- The employer provides accommodation, meals, and flights
- Work typically involves 12-hour shifts, 7 days a week, while on-site
- After the swing, workers fly home for their “R&R” (rest and recreation)
- The cycle repeats according to the roster
Why Choose FIFO?
The Advantages
High Salaries – FIFO workers earn significantly more than their metropolitan counterparts. The average FIFO mining salary sits around $115,000-$140,000 per year, with experienced tradies and operators earning $150,000-$250,000+. Entry-level roles can start at $80,000-$95,000.
Extended Time Off – Unlike a traditional 9-5, FIFO workers get blocks of consecutive days off. Depending on your roster, you could have one to four weeks off at a time – perfect for travel, hobbies, or quality time with family.
No Living Costs While Working – While on-site, your accommodation, meals, and utilities are covered. Many FIFO workers save thousands each month simply because they’re not spending money while at work.
Career Development – Mining operations offer extensive training, upskilling opportunities, and clear career pathways. Many workers start in entry-level roles and progress to supervisory or specialist positions.
Adventure and Travel – You’ll work in some of Australia’s most remote and beautiful landscapes – the red dirt of the Pilbara, the goldfields of Kalgoorlie, or the tropical regions of Queensland.
The Challenges
Time Away from Home – This is the most significant consideration. Being away for 1-4 weeks at a time affects relationships, family life, and social connections.
Demanding Work – 12-hour shifts for consecutive days are physically and mentally taxing. The work can be hot, dusty, and physically demanding.
Remote Locations – You’re far from cities, family, and your usual support networks. Phone and internet access vary by site.
Mental Health Considerations – The FIFO lifestyle can contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression. Understanding and managing these risks is crucial. Read our FIFO Mental Health guide →
FIFO Locations and Regions
Western Australia – The FIFO Heartland
Western Australia is the epicentre of FIFO work in Australia, with the majority of FIFO positions based here.
Pilbara Region – Home to Australia’s iron ore giants: BHP, Rio Tinto, Fortescue. Major sites: Newman, Tom Price, Port Hedland, Karratha. Primary resource: Iron ore. One of the world’s largest autonomous mining systems.
Goldfields-Esperance – Historic gold mining region centred on Kalgoorlie. Major employers: Northern Star Resources, Gold Fields. Key sites: Super Pit (KCGM), Jundee, Thunderbox.
Midwest – Emerging iron ore and mineral sands region. Growing renewable energy projects.
Queensland
Bowen Basin – Australia’s largest coal mining region. Major employers: BHP, Glencore, Anglo American. Key towns: Moranbah, Clermont, Dysart. A mix of FIFO and residential workforce.
Mount Isa – Copper, lead, zinc, and silver mining. Major employer: Glencore. Remote location drives FIFO from Brisbane and Townsville.
South Australia
Olympic Dam – One of the world’s largest copper, uranium, gold, and silver mines. Major employer: BHP. FIFO from Adelaide.
Types of FIFO Jobs
Trade Roles (Highest Demand)
Electricians – Maintain and repair electrical systems on mobile and fixed plant. Salary range: $130,000 – $220,000+. Read our FIFO Electrician guide →
Heavy Diesel Mechanics (HD Fitters) – Service and repair haul trucks, excavators, and mobile equipment. Salary range: $140,000-$200,000+.
Boilermakers/Welders – Fabrication, repairs, and structural work. Salary range: $120,000-$180,000.
Plumbers and Gas Fitters – Camp facilities and site infrastructure. Salary range: $100,000-$150,000.
Auto Electricians – Specialised electrical systems on mining equipment. Salary range: $125,000-$180,000.
Operations Roles
Haul Truck Operators – Operate massive haul trucks (up to 400+ tonnes)—salary range: $100,000-$160,000. An entry pathway is available with training.
Excavator/Loader Operators – Operate digging and loading equipment. Salary range: $100,000-$150,000.
Drill and Blast – Production and exploration drilling. Salary range: $120,000-$180,000+.
Process Plant Operators – Operate crushing, grinding, and processing facilities. Salary range: $90,000-$140,000.
Professional and Technical
Mining Engineers – Design and supervise mining operations. Salary range: $130,000-$250,000+.
Geologists – Analyse rock formations and mineral deposits. Salary range: $100,000-$180,000.
Safety Officers/Advisors – Ensure WHS compliance and safety systems. Salary range: $120,000-$180,000.
Support and Services
Camp Hospitality – Cleaners, kitchen hands, chefs, baristas. Salary range: $70,000-$110,000. Often no experience required – great entry point. Read our Entry-Level FIFO Jobs guide →
Administration – Site admin, HR, procurement. Salary range: $80,000-$120,000.
Bus Drivers – Transport workers around the site. Salary range: $90,000-$120,000.
Major FIFO Employers
Mining Companies
| Company | Primary Resources | Key Regions |
|---|---|---|
| BHP | Iron ore, copper, coal, nickel | WA, QLD, SA |
| Rio Tinto | Iron ore, aluminium, copper | WA, NT, QLD |
| Fortescue (FMG) | Iron ore, green energy | WA Pilbara |
| South32 | Manganese, aluminium, coal | WA, QLD, NT |
| Glencore | Coal, copper, zinc | QLD, Mount Isa |
| Newmont | Gold | WA |
| Northern Star | Gold | WA Goldfields |
| Pilbara Minerals | Lithium | WA |
| Mineral Resources (MinRes) | Iron ore, lithium | WA |
Contract Mining Companies
These companies provide mining services to the majors – great for gaining experience: Thiess (CIMIC Group), Downer Group, Macmahon, Perenti (Barminco, MACA), Byrnecut, NRW Holdings.
Hospitality and Camp Services
Sodexo, Compass Group (ESS), Civeo, Cater Care, Morris Corporation.
Recruitment Agencies
Chandler Macleod, Hays, WorkPac, Programmed, Mining People International (MPi), Globe 24-7.
FIFO Rosters Explained
Your roster determines your work-life balance and income. Read our complete FIFO Rosters guide →
| Roster | Description | Annual Hours | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:1 | 2 weeks on, 1 week off | ~2,920 | Higher earnings | Long time away |
| 8:6 | 8 days on, 6 days off | ~2,500 | Good family balance | Moderate earnings |
| 14:14 | 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off | ~2,190 | Most time at home | Lower annual hours |
| 4:1 | 4 weeks on, 1 week off | ~3,360 | Highest earnings | Very long swings |
| 7:7 | 1 week on, 1 week off | ~2,190 | Short swings | More travel days |
What’s Provided: Camp Life
Accommodation
Modern mine camps (often called “villages”) typically provide: a private room with a single bed, air conditioning, a TV, and an en-suite bathroom. Quality varies from basic to hotel-standard. Some sites offer larger rooms for supervisory staff.
Meals
All meals are provided at the mess hall (dining room)—typically breakfast, lunch (packed “crib” for those working), and dinner. Quality is generally excellent – fresh food, variety, and dietary options. 24/7 snack options available.
Facilities
Modern camps typically include: gym and fitness centre, swimming pool (common in WA/QLD), recreation room (TV, games, pool tables), laundry facilities, Internet/WiFi (quality varies), sports courts, and sometimes a “wet mess” (bar).
Getting Started: Essential Requirements
Minimum Requirements for Most Roles
Identification and Work Rights – Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or a valid work visa. Photo ID (driver’s licence or passport).
Medical Clearance – Pre-employment medical assessment, drug and alcohol screening (pre-employment and ongoing random testing), fitness for duty assessment.
Safety Inductions – White Card (General Construction Induction Card), site-specific inductions (BHP, Rio Tinto, FMG have their own), Standard 11 (Queensland coal mines). Get your White Card →
Additional Tickets and Licences
| Ticket | Required For |
|---|---|
| HR/HC/MC Licence | Driving large vehicles |
| Forklift Licence (LF) | Operating forklifts |
| Working at Heights | Any elevated work |
| Confined Space | Work in confined areas |
| EWP Licence | Elevated work platforms |
| Rigging (RB/RI/RA) | Rigging and lifting |
| First Aid | Many supervisory roles |
| Trade Licence | Electrical, plumbing work |
How to Get a FIFO Job
Step 1: Get Your Tickets
Invest in essential certifications: White Card (~$150-250), Working at Heights, Confined Space Entry, First Aid, and any relevant trade licences.
Step 2: Create a Mining-Focused Resume
Highlight relevant experience (even transferable skills), list all tickets and certifications clearly, include fitness levels and willingness for remote work, reference safety record, and drug/alcohol compliance.
Step 3: Register with Recruitment Agencies
Most FIFO positions are filled through agencies: Chandler Macleod, Hays Resources and Mining, WorkPac, Programmed, Mining People International.
Step 4: Apply Directly to Companies
Major companies list positions on their career pages: BHP Careers, Rio Tinto Careers, Fortescue Careers, South32 Careers.
Step 5: Use Job Boards
SEEK (filter for “FIFO”), Indeed, Jora, Mining industry-specific boards.
Tips for Success
- Start with what you can get – Entry-level roles are stepping stones
- Be persistent – It can take months to land your first role
- Be flexible – Accept less desirable rosters or locations initially
- Build relationships – Your network becomes invaluable
- Upskill continuously – More tickets = more opportunities
FIFO Salary Guide (2025)
| Role | Entry Level | Experienced | Senior/Supervisor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $130,000 | $160,000 | $180,000-220,000 |
| HD Fitter | $130,000 | $160,000 | $180,000-200,000 |
| Boilermaker | $120,000 | $150,000 | $170,000-180,000 |
| Haul Truck Operator | $100,000 | $130,000 | $150,000+ |
| Process Operator | $90,000 | $120,000 | $140,000+ |
| Kitchen Hand | $70,000 | $85,000 | $100,000+ |
| Cleaner | $70,000 | $85,000 | $95,000+ |
| Site Admin | $80,000 | $100,000 | $120,000+ |
What’s Included Beyond Base Salary
- Superannuation (11.5% in 2025)
- Flights – All travel costs covered
- Accommodation – Free on-site
- Meals – All meals provided
- Allowances – Travel time, living away from home
- Overtime – Often built into roster
- Bonuses – Performance and retention bonuses are common
Total Package Value: A $150,000 base salary FIFO role can be worth $200,000+ when you factor in free accommodation, meals, and travel.
Common Questions
Q: Do I need mining experience to get a FIFO job?
A: No! Many entry-level roles require no experience – kitchen hand, cleaner, trade assistant, operator trainee. See entry-level options →
Q: How long does it take to get a FIFO job?
A: It varies. Some people land roles within weeks; others persist for 6-12 months. Having the right tickets and being flexible improves your chances.
Q: Can I choose my roster?
A: Sometimes. The roster is usually set by the employer, but some positions offer options. Discuss preferences during the interview.
Q: Will FIFO damage my relationships?
A: It can be challenging, but many couples and families thrive with good communication and planning. It’s not for everyone.
Q: How much can I save on FIFO?
A: With accommodation and meals covered, many workers save $50,000-$80,000+ per year, depending on their salary and lifestyle choices.
Resources
Job Boards
- SEEK: seek.com.au/fifo-jobs
- Indeed: au.indeed.com
Major Employers
- BHP: bhp.com/careers
- Rio Tinto: riotinto.com/careers
- Fortescue: fmgl.com.au/careers
- South32: south32.net/careers
Conclusion
FIFO work offers an exceptional opportunity to earn high wages, develop valuable skills, and experience a unique lifestyle. It’s not for everyone – the time away from home and demanding work environment requires the right mindset and preparation.
If you’re ready to embrace the challenges, FIFO can provide financial freedom, career advancement, and memories of working in some of Australia’s most remarkable locations.
Start by getting your essential tickets, registering with recruitment agencies, and being persistent in your applications. Your FIFO career could begin sooner than you think.
Last updated: November 2025
Disclaimer: Salaries and conditions vary by employer, role, and location. Information in this guide is for general reference only. Always verify details with specific employers and recruitment agencies.