FIFO Unpacked: Your Ultimate FAQ Guide to FIFO Work

What is FIFO?

FIFO (Fly In, Fly Out) describes workers who fly to remote job sites for typically two-week-long shifts before returning home and is crucial for jobs in remote and rural areas where daily travel is not easily accessible. While on-site, employees often have their accommodation and meals covered by the company they work for.

What is the average FIFO salary?

In 2024, the average salary for FIFO workers is approximately $113,282 per annum or $58.09/hour, which is $39,808 more than the average Australian income in 2024. Entry-level “no experience” FIFO roles start at $92,643 per annum, while more experienced workers can expect to earn up to $168,816 per year.

What is the average FIFO roster?

While FIFO workers are well paid, they do work long hours typically working a 10-12 hour day for two weeks before returning home and having one to two weeks off. Some FIFO workers, depending on the job, will need to work weekends because it would be expensive and delay the timelines of projects within mining and construction.

What are the benefits of FIFO work?

There are a number of perks of working a FIFO position, the first and biggest draw card for many is the generous salary, followed by most having their accommodation and meals covered while on site, which with the rising costs of living can save them money on their living expenses.

Another benefit of FIFO work is having a guaranteed extended period of time off at the end of each roster, on top of receiving annual leave.

Are there any downsides to the FIFO lifestyle?

While FIFO jobs come with many benefits, there are some downsides to working FIFO jobs including being separated from friends and family for extended periods of time which can affect their mental wellbeing, while the intense and repetitive nature of the work in the mining and construction industries can bring with it aches, pains and injuries if workers do not prioritise their healthy and safety.

Ready to start your career in mining?

Enrol in the Standard 11 (S11) Mining Induction course, it is a mandatory course which you will need to complete if you are looking for a job on surface coal and metalliferous mine sites in Queensland. The S11 course covers essential safety and induction requirements, ensuring you are prepared and have adequate knowledge of the risks associated with coal surface mining.

For more information about these courses please call us on 1300 CIVIL S or via email at info@civilsafety.edu.au

About Civil Safety

Civil Safety is a leading Registered Training Organisation (RTO 32381) for the mining, civil and construction industries, with operations across Queensland and Western Australia. We provide safety and operational training to thousands of people every year from a diverse range of backgrounds. Our highly experienced trainers bring real-world experience to the classroom – ensuring our students graduate ready for work with the skills, confidence and qualifications required for safe and compliant operation in dangerous environments.

With a vast range of courses, plus a variety of learning methods including face-to-face, blended and online – we can help you gain the skills you need to enter a new industry or upskill in your current career.

Find out more information on the range of mining courses we offer, or give us a call on 1300 CIVIL S.