FIFO (fly-in, fly-out) mining jobs aren’t easy, but they can be incredibly lucrative. As a temporary worker, you’ll be flown into remote locations to work on mining sites for a period of time. It’s an amazing opportunity to travel, gain valuable experience and network, all while getting paid great for doing it.
The average FIFO mining salary is $58.72 per hour, or $114,501 AUD per year. And this guide explores everything you need to know about different pay rates for different job types and what you can expect for spending and saving.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the information in this post will help you navigate and negotiate FIFO mining pay with more confidence – so you can get paid exactly what you deserve.
FIFO Mining Salary Averages: What to Expect
Your FIFO mining salary depends on various factors, such as:
- The type of job you get
- Your work experience
- The job demand
- Your certifications and training
But according to talent.com, the average salary for FIFO work is $114,501 AUD, while entry-level jobs start around $92,000 AUD. But if you’re more experienced, some of the top earners can make around $169,000 AUD.
Of course, you’ll get more specific salary information as you go through the interview process.
Read more: FIFO Mining Guide: How to Get Started
FIFO Salaries, Experience & Job Types
Your FIFO mining salary depends largely on the type of work you’re doing and your experience. For example, intermediate jobs (like rigging) can earn $5-10 more per hour compared to other unskilled roles.
But it’s important not to take these numbers as being some hard and fast rule. Your situation may be unique and numbers can fluctuate. Still, here are some averages based on different levels of experience and job type:
- Entry-level work
- Utility worker: $32-37
- Bus driver: $40
- General labour: $40
- More experienced or specialty roles
- Vac Truck operator: $50
- Heavy equipment operator: $50+
- Crane operator: $60
- Plumber: $65+
- Electrician: $65-70+
Keep in mind that many jobs (even entry-level roles) will require special ‘tickets’. A basic white card and certifications for working at heights and confined spaces are often required to work many roles or to be on-site (for construction) in Australia.
Your employer or recruitment agency can help guide you in getting the right training.
Read more: 6 Types of FIFO Mining Jobs
Negotiating Your FIFO Salary: Tips & Insights
Negotiating your salary in Australia is an important part of the job application process. You don’t want to be unrealistic, but you also don’t want to get taken advantage of.
For FIFO mining jobs, your negotiating power depends on your skills, the competition, the type of job you’re applying for and the supply vs. demand.
For example, some entry-level positions or FIFO jobs that don’t require experience (such as utility work) will be more competitive. But they also tend to pay less. So it’s helpful to set realistic goals and expectations.
Here are some tips to help improve your chances of getting a good FIFO mining salary:
- Pay for some training. Many FIFO jobs require special certifications and having the right ones can give you a competitive edge and higher pay.
- Get some relevant experience. If you have zero experience and you’re struggling to get hired, consider spending a few months or more getting some entry-level construction experience first.
- Do your research. Research salary averages and what other companies are paying so you know what to expect. This also gives you negotiating power.
- Highlight your value. Take advantage of your strengths, unique experiences and skills by making them relevant to the position you’re applying for.
- Apply to multiple places. The more lines you have in the water, the more options you’ll have to find and choose the best mining position.
If you want to find the best possible FIFO job and salary, you may consider working with a professional recruitment agency. You’ll get a team of experts who work on your behalf and help prepare you every step of the way. W1N W1N Recruitment is someone I recommend and a leader in the FIFO space.
How Much Does FIFO Life Cost?
Besides the great pay, you also don’t need to worry about spending a lot of money while working a FIFO job. You have low living expenses, high pay and limited opportunities to spend money – this is a major benefit for this type of work.
Here are some of the perks you can expect as a FIFO worker:
- Free room
- Free buffet-style meals
- Free flights
- On-site amenities like a gym and laundry
- Essential safety and work gear is provided
Your FIFO living costs ultimately depend on your spending habits, expenses during time off and any bills you may have back home. So it’s important to stay intentional if you want to save money (but more on this later).
Read more: The FIFO Mining Lifestyle: What to Expect
How Much Money Should I Prepare?
The FIFO mining salary is great and most of your living expenses will be covered. But it’s still important to save some money prior to leaving.
During the application process, you may be required to show you have sufficient funds in your account (of at least $5,000 AUD). This is proof that you would be able to cover any potential emergencies while you’re getting started.
Having a rainy day fund and budgeting for miscellaneous or personal expenses (while you wait for your first pay) is important to make things as smooth and stress-free as possible. Plus, you’ll also need to purchase a few items in preparation for your FIFO work, such as:
- A working holiday visa application ($635 AUD)
- Certifications and training
- Hi vis work pants
- Work boots
- Hotel stays and travel during work downturns
Can You Save Money as a FIFO Worker?
Yes, you can definitely save money in the FIFO mining industry. While working, you get a competitive salary and you won’t spend money on things like accommodation, food or transportation.
The money you save comes down to your spending habits and individual circumstances or needs. There are plenty of examples of people saving thousands of dollars each month, paying off student loans or saving up for a down payment on a house.
It’s a matter of goal-setting, budgeting and staying intentional. But saving money is also important to sustain yourself during long stretches of time off. Since FIFO work is temporary, you may have long periods of no work. So planning ahead (and saving) is important.
FIFO Money-Saving Tips
Being able to save money is one of the best parts about a FIFO job. But staying conscious of your spending is still important since FIFO work can have a lot of downturn time. So here are some quick money-saving tips:
- Set clear financial goals
- Stick to a lifestyle budget
- Limit unnecessary expenses
- Avoid extravagant spending during time off
- Research work-related tax deductions to claim
- Automatically set aside a portion of your salary into your savings
Frequently Asked Questions about Mining Salary
The highest paying FIFO jobs require more specialised certifications and/or experience. For example, here are some positions that pay the highest (per hour):
- Vac Truck operator: $50
- Heavy equipment operator: $50+
- Crane operator: $60
- Plumber: $65+
- Electrician: $65-70+
Entry-level positions still offer competitive salaries and can be a great way to get experience before moving into a higher-paying role.
According to talent.com, the average FIFO mining salary is $114,501, with lower end salaries starting around $92,000 and going all the way up to around $169,000.
Your salary depends on your experience, the demand and your certifications.
Absolutely! The FIFO mining industry is great for saving money since you won’t be spending as much while on rotation and most of your expenses (such as food, travel and accommodations) are covered. But staying intentional (by creating a budget, financial goals and limiting extra expenses) will help you save even more money.
FIFO mining isn’t for everyone. But if you’re hard-working, optimistic and willing to travel and work long hours, then absolutely this job is worth it. It’s important to manage your expectations and set realistic goals. FIFO mining jobs are a great way to boost your resume, gain valuable experience and enjoy a flexible schedule.
