how to become a fifo worker

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What does it mean to be a FIFO worker?

FIFO (fly-in, fly-out) workers are mainly found in Australia’s resources industry, which contributes a mind-boggling $250 billion to the economy each year in exports alone (70% of our total exports). This industry employs about 250,000 workers, and almost six times that number (1.1 million) rely on the industry for their employment.

How many hours does a FIFO worker work?

The pay is also significant to make up for the inconveniences. FIFO workers also work long hours – usually 12-hour shifts – and seven days a week on site with very little downtime. The most common roster arrangements are 14 days on, 14 days off and 7 days on 7 days off.

How can I make the FIFO lifestyle work for me?

The key to making this work is by structuring your study around difficult rosters and long hours. That is why online diploma courses, such as those offered by the College for Adult Learning, are so well suited to the FIFO lifestyle. They can be completed in at your own pace and in your timeframe.

How important is career development to FIFO workers?

A recent survey found career development is second only to work/life balance in terms of what workplace issues are the most important to FIFO workers (40% compared to 37%). Many industries are aggressively pursuing graduates, incentivising mining companies to bring something to the table in terms of career progression opportunities.

What do I need for FIFO?

Let your HR recruiter know if you need some, as it's best to get them organised before going to site. Take a copy of all your personal details (emergency contacts, tax file number, banking details, superannuation numbers, copies of any certificates in first aid, HR licence etc).

What are the disadvantages of being a FIFO worker?

What are the disadvantages of the FIFO life?Long hours and shift work is undoubtedly one of the toughest aspects of FIFO work. ... Most sites are remote, and workers can be exposed to extreme temperatures, dust, pests and harsh terrain. ... FIFO can put a lot of stress on families and relationships.More items...•

What qualifications do I need to work in the mines in Australia?

The qualifications required to work as a Miner depend on the type of role and mine you want to work in. There are pathways through vocational education in mining and drilling, in additional to traineeships and apprenticeships. You may also need specific vehicle licenses, security and medical clearances.

How does a FIFO work?

First In, First Out, commonly known as FIFO, is an asset-management and valuation method in which assets produced or acquired first are sold, used, or disposed of first. For tax purposes, FIFO assumes that assets with the oldest costs are included in the income statement's cost of goods sold (COGS).

Do FIFO get paid week off?

Casual employment (hourly rates), you only get paid for the hours you work. For example if you were on a 2/1 Roster, you would be paid for the two weeks on site but not the week spent at home on R&R. Keep in mind FIFO positions always pay a lot more which means you would still most likely come out on top.

Do FIFO workers get paid well?

Find out what the average Fifo salary is Entry-level positions start at $83,421 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $134,880 per year.

Is it hard to get a job in mines?

The mining industry can be very difficult to get into, especially if you have no previous experience or qualifications. You need to be persistent and have patience, when applying for mining jobs. If you're serious about getting a mining job then try everything until you have exhausted all avenues.

How do I start working in the mines?

FIRST STEPSRegister with WorkPac (you can do this before you have your relevant medicals and advise us once complete).Keep an eye on our website as well as mining company websites for entry level jobs and apply.Network. ... Stay in touch - keep us informed of your availability and qualifications.More items...

Is mining a good career?

While some may envision mining as an outdated career, the modern mining industry offers many great career opportunities. Mining professionals enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, travel opportunities and non-traditional schedule opportunities, outdoor work, and opportunities for career progression.

Do FIFO workers work 7 days a week?

As a FIFO worker, you're usually required to work long hours, with very little downtime during your stay. You can expect 12-hour shifts, 7 days a week, and the most common roster arrangement is 7 days on followed by 7 days off, or sometimes 14 days on followed by 14 days off.

Do FIFO workers pay for flights?

The FIFO benefit is available to eligible employees who work in a remote area and are required to travel from their usual place of residence. This FIFO benefit enables you to salary package your airfares and pay using pre-tax dollars, which will also lower your taxable income and help you save on income tax.

Can FIFO workers drink alcohol?

Fly-in, fly-out workers will be limited to four alcoholic drinks per day while staying at worksite accommodation in Western Australia under an industry-wide policy being rolled out.

Where are FIFO workers located?

FIFO (fly-in, fly-out) workers are mainly found in Australia’s resources industry , which contributes a mind-boggling $250 billion to the economy each year in exports alone (70% of our total exports). This industry employs about 250,000 workers, and almost six times that number (1.1 million) rely on the industry for their employment.

How long is a FIFO shift?

These shifts are typically 12 hours per day, lasting anywhere from seven days ...

What are the downsides of being a FIFO?

The downside includes missing significant milestones (birthdays, social events) while you are away, a lack of variety in the workplace, and difficulty establishing friendships on big worksites.

Is career development important for FIFO?

A recent survey found career development is second only to work/life balance in terms of what workplace issues are the most important to FIFO workers ( 40% compared to 37%). Many industries are aggressively pursuing graduates, incentivising mining companies to bring something to the table in terms of career progression opportunities.

What to Expect from FIFO Work

The FIFO lifestyle can be extremely lucrative and rewarding, but it isn’t for everyone, so it’s important to know what to expect when assessing your options.

Requirements of a FIFO Mining Job

So, what does it take to land a job in the mines? The requirements of a FIFO mining job vary depending on the specific site and role in question. However, there are some generic requirements that will serve you well, whatever job you’re pursuing:

Common Mining & Energy Jobs

Many people don’t realise that a wide range of jobs are necessary on a mine site, some of which are more generic in nature and don’t involve working in the mine itself. This means there are opportunities for people with a variety of skill sets available.

How to Get a Job in the Mines

When it comes to how to get a job in the mines, there are several key steps you can take to increase your chances of landing a FIFO role.

Get Specialist Resources & Mining Recruitment Support

If you’ve decided that a FIFO mining job is right for you, you’ll want to partner with a Resources & Mining recruitment agency that can help you each step of the way.

Where do FIFO workers live?

Many FIFO workers live in growing cities like Perth , and there is no shortage of things to do in these places. Partly due to the rising number of wealthy people living in the city, Perth is quickly becoming one of the most advanced, cosmopolitan urban sprawls in the Southern Hemisphere.

How long does a FIFO work?

Expect to work long hours as a FIFO worker. It is not uncommon to work a 12-hour shift or longer on most days. A typical “swing”, as they say in the industry, can be 14 days on and 7 days off. When they’re off, most workers return to their real homes in major metropolitan areas.

What are the benefits of being a FIFO?

One of the benefits of being a FIFO worker is being invited into a rich community of other workers sharing the same shift patterns. Get involved with the sociable activities after work, create long-lasting friendships with your colleagues and enjoy the time you have with each other.

Is FIFO a stressful job?

Like every job, being a FIFO worker comes with its own stresses. A lot of people find that the remote location combined with the time spent away from family can be difficult to deal with, so finding what helps you to manage stress is essential for any FIFO worker.

A few more considerations

There's a bunch of other things you'll need to think about when looking around for FIFO jobs.

FIFO Work

Rarely is any decision clear cut. And with con’s, always come pro’s! And there’s some pretty compelling reasons to life as a FIFO worker.

The commute to work starts early

My roster begins bright and early on a Tuesday at 3.45am, with an alarm screeching in my ear. It is still pitch-black outside, but in winter it is even worse. Check-in is at 5am and with a 30-minute drive to the airport; there is no time to waste.

The day-to-day reality of the FIFO life

There are production, safety and planning meetings to attend and a week’s worth of emails to reply to. My first day usually ends around 7.00pm — some 15 hours after my alarm. I head back to the village, grab some takeaway dinner, head to my room, shower, eat, call home and maybe catch the 8.30pm news. Thus ends day one of eight.

How many days off for a FIFO?

Rosters, for instance, range from eight days on with six days off (8/6) to shift splits like 9/5, 14/7, 14/14 or even four weeks on, one week off.

What are the disadvantages of FIFO?

What are the disadvantages of the FIFO life? 1 Family and friends do not always have a good idea of what it is like to live in a small mining camp. They don’t necessarily understand what it’s like or what you’re experiencing. 2 You’re highly likely to miss significant events back at home, like birthdays, concerts and sporting events. 3 If you’re in a relationship it can cause issues, as one partner can feel as if they are running the household as a single person or single parent. 4 The hours and the rosters can be long and tiring. 5 Some people feel constrained by the camp lifestyle, as some are almost prisonlike in their layout (see the main picture). 6 When new to site, it can be a challenge to get to know people — especially on a large site 7 There is often a lack of variety for meal options, as some places may have just two or three main meals each night. 8 Many people in the recent downturn did not think the boom would end and did not plan for the future. For most people the FIFO lifestyle will not last forever.