You probably already know, but FIFO mining in Australia has a lot of exciting opportunities. It’s great money, gives you chances to travel and you learn valuable in-demand skills. But you also probably have a lot of questions still.
So this is my essential guide on the FIFO lifestyle and what you can expect as a worker. I cover everything you need to know about mining working conditions, schedules and more.
So let’s skip the small talk and get right to it then!
What Is FIFO Mining In Australia
FIFO mining stands for “Fly-In Fly-Out” mining. Companies hire workers and fly them into remote locations to work on-site for extended periods of time.
There’s high demand for skilled workers who have the right attitude, motivation and/or experience.
I actually wrote a whole article about the FIFO mining industry and how to get started. So if you’re serious about this type of work, you may want to check that post out too – after you finish reading this one, that is.
Otherwise, let’s keep moving.
FIFO Lifestyle & Working Conditions: What to Expect
If you’re new to the FIFO lifestyle, it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting into. So here’s everything you can expect.
FIFO Lifestyle & Working Conditions: What to Expect
Your FIFO experience depends largely on what type of role you have, the work being done and the company you’re working for. So choosing a job that’s most aligned with your goals, lifestyle preferences and skills is important.
Here are the main FIFO job roles and responsibilities you can choose from:
- Production work
- Responsibilities: Operating heavy machinery and earth-moving equipment.
- Maintenance and operations
- Responsibilities: Fixing and maintaining various equipment on-site.
- Construction
- Responsibilities: Building mining sites and the necessary infrastructure.
- Drilling and exploration
- Responsibilities: Drilling into the earth to discover deposits and materials.
- General services
- Responsibilities: Various roles, such as cooking, cleaning, driving and admin.
- Shutdown
- Responsibilities: Variety of roles that require going to sites during a mine shutdown for maintenance and repairs.
It’s important to note that some positions will require special experience or certification (mainly production or maintenance work). And other roles, such as general services, are more popular and therefore more competitive.
So keep your expectations realistic and stay patient during the job search process! For example, you may need to start off in a construction role before moving up to something better.
Recommended: Types of FIFO Mining Jobs in Australia
Working Schedule & Rosters
Mining operations run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. So there’s a good chance you’ll be working during holidays or other important dates.
FIFO mining in Australia operates on a fixed roster schedule (with the exception of shutdown work, which isn’t fixed). Generally, you’ll be expected to work 12-hour shifts every day that you are rostered on.
For example, if your roster schedule is 8/6, you’ll be on (working) for 8 days, followed by 6 days off. Some common roster schedules are 1/1, 2/1, 4/1, and 8/6. But it’s also possible to be rostered on for up to 4 weeks (or longer) at a time, followed by 1 week off.
The roster schedule you get ultimately depends on the specific project you’re working on, its location and the worker’s needs and wellbeing.
Speak with your employer or your recruiter to learn more about your roster schedule.
Accommodations, Facilities & Food
As a FIFO worker, you’ll be doing jobs in remote locations, usually far away from your home. But don’t worry, you’ll be provided free mining accommodations (aka “donga”) during your time on-site.
Your donga is like a hotel room with the bare essentials, including a shower, toilet, bed and closet. You’ll also get three free meals a day, often buffet style and unlimited.
Mining sites typically have other free amenities too, such as:
- A gym
- Swimming pools
- Mini gold
- Laundry facilities
- Retail shops (*for purchase)
- Wifi
- Recreational activities
Any additional snacks or expenses (such as cigarettes, alcohol and phone bills) will be covered by you.
Social Life
One of the more difficult parts about the FIFO lifestyle is being away from friends and family for extended periods of time. But that doesn’t mean you’re completely alone either. You’ll still have a social life – just a FIFO social life.
FIFO work is a unique kind of work-life balance. You work long hours, back-to-back. But you also have important time off too. Rest and rejuvenation are a priority for workers.
So during your time off, you can enjoy the on-site facilities with other FIFO workers or relax in whatever way you like.
Just be prepared for a different type of social life, away from loved ones and friends back home.
Health, Safety & Clothing
FIFO mining is hard work and long hours. You’ll be in remote locations and potentially exposed to dangerous environmental conditions or hazards. So health and safety are taken very seriously.
Part of this starts with your uniform. Your boss will provide you with shirts, hard hats, gloves, glasses and the necessary safety gear you may need for the job. But you’ll need to bring your own:
- Hi-vis (high visibility) work pants
- Steel-toe work boots
- Socks and underwear
- An insulated water bottle
- Tupperware (or similar) containers for lunches
- Non-work clothing and accessories (such as toiletries, medication, etc.)
Beyond your safety gear, having the proper ‘tickets’ (certifications and training) will also ensure you know how to operate machinery and safely conduct yourself on a job site. Finally, it’s essential that you remain sober while working on-site. Taking a breathalyser or random drug tests on-site is common.
Life & Mental Health Challenges
FIFO mining in Australia is a great opportunity. But it isn’t for everyone. It’s hard work and mentally demanding. It’s a different lifestyle.
The long hours, difficult conditions and challenging work create a lot of stress. You’re more likely to experience anxiety, burnout or depression while working a FIFO gig.
So taking your mental health seriously is crucial for creating a more sustainable FIFO lifestyle.
Some common challenges while working a FIFO job include:
- Difficult work demand
- Maintaining connections back home
- Stigma for seeking help or feeling down
- Difficult work conditions and work culture
Some signs you may be dealing with mental health challenges while working on-site include irritability, prolonged stress, difficulty sleeping, excessive alcohol or drug use and a feeling of dread going to work.
It’s important to understand the reality of working a FIFO mining job in Australia. This way, you know exactly what you’re getting into and can plan accordingly.
How to Deal With the FIFO Lifestyle
Given the demanding nature of FIFO work, it’s important that you know what to expect and have a strong mindset going in. This will be your greatest asset.
So here are some key tips to better prepare yourself for FIFO and how to deal with the stress:
- Focus on the positives. Remember, you’re making great money, getting free food and accommodations and gaining invaluable experience.
- Focus on the micro. Take things one day at a time. Become process-oriented and pay attention to the next step forward, not the whole project.
- Keep an open-mind. Remain agile and flexible and manage your expectations. Keeping an open mind will limit disappointments and stresses.
- Speak up. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek out help if you’re struggling. Your wellbeing is the most important part of this work.
Wrapping Up
FIFO mining in Australia is a great opportunity, but it is a different lifestyle.
The long hours on a fixed roster, difficult working conditions and potential mental health challenges are common hurdles for workers in this field. Still, for many it’s well worth it.
Free accommodations, free food, excellent pay and a unique experience are a few of the biggest perks. But ultimately, your success comes down to knowing what to expect and cultivating the right mindset.
So, are you ready to start your new FIFO career?
