FIFO jobs in Australia are very famous. They have good pay, time off, and opportunities to grow. In this guide, we will show you what FIFO jobs are, how you can acquire one, and what life is like on the job. The whole guide has been written very easily, even for kids to read.
What Are FIFO Jobs? – FIFO Jobs Explained
FIFO is short for Fly-In Fly-Out. The job locations are mostly far from cities. You fly to the site, work for a while, and when your time is done, you fly back home on a break. This type of work is very common in mining, gas, oil, and large construction projects.
You need not move your entire family; you just go to work and come back home on your days off. This is what makes FIFO jobs popular among many in Australia.
Why Choose FIFO Jobs in Australia? – Benefits of FIFO Jobs
FIFO jobs come with plenty of perks. Here are reasons why they are loved by many:
- Good Payment
FIFO jobs usually tend to pay very high. The annual salaries for some of these workers range from about $100,000 to AUD 250,000.
- Free Flights and Stay
Your company usually pays for your flights. They also give you free meals and a place to stay while at work.
- Long Time off Work
FIFO workers usually have very few days of work, followed by a week or more of their off-shift. Thus, more time for family, friends, and fun.
- Developments Creeds
Most of the FIFO jobs also have training opportunities available. Therefore, you can start as a helper and then quickly grow to bigger roles.
Types of FIFO Jobs in Australia – Find the Right FIFO Job
There are many FIFO jobs out there. Let’s look at the most popular ones:
Mining FIFO Jobs
- Truck drivers
- Drill helpers
- Machine operators
- Mechanics
- Electricians
Construction FIFO Jobs
- Carpenters
- Welders
- Project planners
- Safety workers
- Engineers
Support FIFO Jobs
- Chefs
- Cleaners
- Nurses
- Security guards
- Emergency workers
Life on the Job – FIFO Jobs and Rosters
In FIFO work, you follow a schedule called a roster. A few common ones include:
- 2 weeks on, 1 week off
- 3 weeks on, 1 week off
- 1 week on, 1 week off
Your workday is usually long—about 12 hours. You may work during the day or night. But remember, you get a full break after your work week.
FIFO Jobs Salary Guide – How Much Can You Make?
Pay depends on your job and skills. Here’s a look at average FIFO job pay:
| FIFO Job Role | Yearly Pay (AUD) |
| Entry-Level Worker | $90,000 – $110,000 |
| Machine Operator | $120,000 – $140,000 |
| Licensed Electrician | $130,000 – $160,000 |
| Site Supervisor | $180,000 – $250,000 |
What You Need for FIFO Jobs – FIFO Job Requirements
You may be able to get a FIFO job without a qualification. Many positions for beginners require:
- Driver’s license,
- Clear police check,
- Clean drug and alcohol test,
- Good health and fitness.
Some positions require additional training or a special card, such as:
- White Card (for construction),
- Working at Heights ticket,
- First Aid and CPR training.
How to Get a FIFO Job in Australia – Easy Steps to Start
- Make Your Resume Shine
Interview and get trained, and freelance if the opportunity comes; listen to the radio and work outdoors.
- Do Online Searches.
There are often FIFO jobs advertised on sites like SEEK, Indeed, and Jora in Australia.
- Enlist With Job Agencies.
Agencies like WorkPac or Hays, or Programmed help put people in FIFO jobs.
- Get Certified.
Majority of the companies would want that you have some sort of safety trainings before they hire you like White Card and First Aid trainings.
Challenges of FIFO Jobs in Australia – What to Expect
As with any other occupation, FIFO jobs come with certain benefits; however, they have some of the toughest drawbacks, such as:
- Separation from family, loneliness, and solitude
- Longer and exhausting working hours
- Being in a camp with multiple occupants
You will miss events back homeBut, bright side is that today, many job sites offer full-fledged gymnasiums, recreational spaces, Wi-Fi, and high-end mental health support to give the worker some comfort of home at their job site.
Tips for Success in FIFO Jobs – How to Do Well
Want to do good in FIFO jobs? Here are good guidelines:
- Stay healthy and fit
- Make calls to your family frequently
- Sleep enough on off days
- Save up for future expenses
- Learn new things on leave days
These habits will keep you happy and speedily grow your career.
Where Are FIFO Jobs in Australia? – FIFO Job Hotspots
FIFO jobs can be found across the nation; here are a few examples:
- Western Australia’s (Pilbara) iron ore and lithium
- Queensland’s (Bowen Basin) coal
- South Australia’s (Olympic Dam) copper and gold
- Top-notch gas and oil work, Northern Territory.
The Future of FIFO Jobs – What’s Next for FIFO Workers?
FIFO workers now find their demand growing with newly minted positions that arise. With the increasing need for green energy, Australia will require more hands to mine lithium, copper, and rare earths.
New jobs are also coming in with solar farms, hydrogen plants, and wind energy projects. Be prepared and trained so that you can grab these opportunities.
Conclusion
Goodbye FIFO, hello stunning prospects. These jobs promise fantastic pay and long leaves from work that guarantee career development. While the jobs happen to be tough, the rewards come in many folds. With FIFO jobs, people create serious careers.
