What Newcomers in Australia Need to Know About FIFO (Fly-in Fly-out) Work

Fly-in fly-out (FIFO) is a distinctive employment model in Australia, especially prevalent in mining, oil and gas, construction, and increasingly, remote healthcare.

Workers are flown to remote sites for set periods—often two to four weeks—working long shifts before returning home for a break.

This arrangement is a cornerstone of Australia’s resources sector, supporting over 100,000 workers nationwide as of 2025. For newcomers, including many migrants and Filipinos, FIFO offers high salaries and career growth, but also challenges around lifestyle and work-life balance.

FIFO Work: Overview and Popularity

FIFO work emerged in the 1980s to address staffing needs in remote resource regions without establishing permanent towns. Today, FIFO remains a practical solution for companies and a lucrative opportunity for workers.

Western Australia is the largest hub for FIFO jobs, especially in the Pilbara and Goldfields regions, followed by Queensland. The mining industry alone employs about 2.2% of Australia’s workforce, with the sector projected to grow at 3.7% annually through 2028.

Key Stats:

• Over 100,000 FIFO workers employed in Australia (2025).
• Mining, construction, oil & gas, and healthcare are the top sectors for FIFO jobs.
• Western Australia invested $5.6 billion in FIFO mental health programs.
• Rio Tinto plans to add 2,000 new FIFO jobs in the Pilbara by 2026.

Major FIFO Employers

For newcomers, knowing the main employers can streamline your job search. Leading companies include:

• BHP: Major mining operations in WA and QLD.
• Rio Tinto: Extensive FIFO operations in iron ore, copper, and more.
• Fortescue Metals Group (FMG): Dominant in the Pilbara region.
• Santos & Woodside Energy: Leading FIFO employers in oil and gas.
• Contractors: Downer Group, Thiess, Monadelphous, and others supply skilled and entry-level staff to major projects.

Job listings are regularly posted on SEEK, Indeed, Jora, and company career pages.

Key Requirements and Skills for FIFO Jobs

1. Medical Fitness and Drug Testing
All FIFO roles require pre-employment medicals and ongoing drug/alcohol testing due to safety-critical environments.

2. Licences and Certifications. 
Depending on the job:

• White Card (construction induction)
• High-Risk Work Licence (crane, forklift)
• Confined space/working-at-heights certifications
• Trade qualifications for skilled roles

3. Soft Skills and Adaptability
Employers value teamwork, resilience, and communication. Living in shared accommodation and working long hours requires strong interpersonal skills.

4. English Proficiency
Basic English is essential for safety and collaboration. Improving language skills can enhance job prospects for newcomers.

IFO vs. Traditional Work: Key Differences

FIFO salaries are often 1.5 to two times higher than city-based equivalents, with entry-level roles starting around $92,600 and experienced workers earning up to $168,800 annually.

Tips for Newcomers Entering FIFO

Start with Entry-Level Roles:
Utility, catering, trades assistant, and cleaning jobs often require minimal experience and offer pathways to skilled positions.

Network and Seek Mentorship:
Connect with Filipino and migrant FIFO workers for insights and referrals.

Research the Lifestyle:
Understand roster patterns (e.g., 14/7, 21/7), camp life, and mental health supports before committing.

Highlight Transferable Skills:
Experience in hospitality, logistics, or machinery operation is valued in FIFO settings.

Conclusion

FIFO work is a vital part of Australia’s resource-driven economy, offering newcomers high salaries, structured time off, and career progression. However, it requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to spend extended periods away from home.

With over 100,000 FIFO jobs available and average salaries around $141,000, newcomers who prepare well and understand the demands can find rewarding opportunities in this booming sector