What is FIFO? A guide to mining work in Western Australia

FIFO means fly-in, fly-out

Workers travel by air to a work location for a period of work and return afterwards. It is a work arrangement, not an occupation: the same arrangement can cover different kinds of work.

Keep three questions separate when you read an advertisement: how you get there, what you do there and who employs you. Knowing the FIFO meaning answers only the first part. It does not confirm the duties, entry requirements or conditions of a particular position.

Sources: WorkSafe WA: work arrangements, glossary

FIFO, DIDO and residential work

These descriptions help you interpret an arrangement; they do not replace the employer’s terms. A job labelled ‘mining’ might be residential, while a FIFO position might involve supporting a village rather than extracting minerals.

The departure point is not the worksite

An advertisement saying “FIFO from Perth” identifies a departure point. Check where the advertised work is located and how you must reach the departure point; these are separate parts of the arrangement.

Before making plans, clarify which travel legs are included, when you must be available and who to contact if arrangements change. Avoid assuming a flight from another city or an international journey is included just because a role is FIFO.

1. Reach the departure point
2. Travel to the site
3. Complete the work period
4. Return as arranged

Illustrative sequence. Actual travel and employment terms vary.

Read the roster as part of the whole arrangement

A roster describes periods of work and time away from work. For illustration, a 14/7 notation can describe 14 days on and seven off. Confirm how that employer counts travel days, what shifts apply and whether the pattern can change. One notation cannot tell you the entire timetable.

The WorkSafe WA FIFO code discusses rosters and remote workplace conditions. Use that context to ask about rest, communication and support. Consider how the specific arrangement would fit your responsibilities outside work, rather than judging it by the days-off number alone.

Sources: WorkSafe WA: FIFO code of practice

Ask about everyday life at the camp

Make practical questions part of your decision: accommodation, meals, communication, facilities and the rules you need to follow. Check what is provided and what you are responsible for. An attractive photo or a general description cannot confirm the arrangements at your particular site.

• What accommodation and meals are included in this role?
• How can I stay in touch with people at home?
• What are the site’s arrival and induction arrangements?
• Who can I contact about a work or accommodation issue?

Choose the work as well as the arrangement

Start with a role’s duties and requirements, then decide whether its travel and roster fit you. Our entry-level roles guide compares village services, kitchen support and drilling assistance. The practical guide explains how to investigate relevant tickets and licences once you have a role in mind.

Write down the points that are still unclear. A useful next step is a focused conversation based on your experience and the work you want to understand, rather than applying indiscriminately to anything labelled FIFO.