The Realities of Fly-In Fly-Out Work in Mining & Construction

Fly-In Fly-Out (FIFO) work has become a common setup in Australia’s mining and construction sectors, especially for projects located in remote areas. 

Instead of relocating, tradies fly to the job site for a set roster, like 2 weeks on, 1week off, then return home. It's a lifestyle that suits many but also comes with unique ups and downs.

From FIFO tradie jobs in Australia to roles like FIFO electricians, these opportunities offer high pay, stable contracts, and chances to work on large-scale projects. 

However, the fly in fly out tradie lifestyle isn't for everyone. Long shifts, time away from family, and adjusting to remote work camps are part of the deal. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of FIFO for tradies, what roles are in demand, and how to decide if FIFO is the right path for you.

What is FIFO Work?

FIFO, or Fly-In Fly-Out, is a work arrangement where employees travel to remote job sites usually in mining or construction, for a fixed period, then fly back home for time off. 

Instead of relocating, workers are flown in by their employer or contractor for “on” shifts (like 2 weeks), followed by “off” shifts (like 1 week). 

This system helps companies access skilled workers without requiring them to live permanently in isolated regions.

How FIFO Works

A FIFO schedule typically includes:

• Fly-in day: You travel to the remote site (often in Western Australia or Northern Queensland).

• Rostered work period: You work long shifts (10–12 hours) for a fixed number of days.

• Fly-out day: You return home for rest until the next rotation.

Accommodation, meals, and transport are usually provided by the employer. Workers live in remote work camps, which offer basic amenities like shared rooms, gyms, and communal dining areas.

Industries That Use FIFO

FIFO is most commonly associated with:

• Mining and resource extraction

• Large-scale construction projects

• Oil and gas

• Infrastructure and utilities

These projects are often based far from major cities, making daily commuting impractical. That’s why FIFO tradie jobs in Australia are in high demand.

Types of FIFO Tradie Roles

Many trades fit into FIFO life, including:

• Electricians (especially sought-after due to the complexity of remote power systems)

• Plumbers

• Boilermakers and welders

• Heavy machinery operators

• Carpenters

• HVAC technicians

If you're wondering about the best FIFO trades to get into, start by looking at roles tied to mining and construction projects, which often offer steady work and higher-than-average pay.

Salary Expectations

FIFO electrician salaries in Australia can range from $120,000 to $180,000+ per year, depending on experience, location, and the project. Other skilled tradies can also earn well, especially when you factor in overtime and extended rosters.

The FIFO Lifestyle: Pros and Cons

The fly in fly out tradie lifestyle has clear benefits:

• High salaries

• Paid travel and accommodation

• Blocks of time off to relax or spend with family

• Opportunities to gain experience on major infrastructure projects

However, there are trade-offs:

• Long hours and physically demanding work

• Time away from loved ones

• Isolation and limited social life in remote work camps

• Mental fatigue and burnout

Understanding the FIFO pros and cons for tradies is important before committing. It’s a great lifestyle for some but can be tough on mental and emotional health if you’re not prepared.

Pros of FIFO Work

FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) work offers several unique advantages that make it an attractive career option for many tradies across Australia. Here are some of the top benefits to consider:

1. Attractive Salaries

One of the biggest reasons tradies choose FIFO work is the high earning potential. Whether you're an electrician, plumber, mechanic, or machine operator, FIFO roles in mining and construction often pay well above industry averages. 

Since these jobs are located in remote or harsh environments, employers usually offer premium wages to attract skilled workers.

For instance, a FIFO electrician in Australia can earn between $120,000 and $180,000+ annually, depending on their experience, the location, and the type of project. Some roles also include bonuses, overtime, and allowances for travel and remote living, making it even more financially rewarding.

2. Rostered Time Off

FIFO rosters typically follow a structured rotation, like 2 weeks on, 1 week off or 3 weeks on, 1 week off. This means you work hard during your "on" time, but then get a full week or more of uninterrupted rest.

This setup is great if you value extended personal time to recharge, spend time with family, travel, or focus on hobbies. Compared to standard 9–5 jobs with weekends off, FIFO allows for longer breaks in fewer chunks, which many tradies find more satisfying and productive.

3. Career Advancement

FIFO projects are usually large-scale, high-budget jobs in mining, oil, gas, and infrastructure. Working on these projects helps you:

• Build experience quickly

• Learn advanced equipment and safety protocols

• Network with top professionals in your trade

As a result, FIFO tradies often progress faster in their careers than those working in smaller, local jobs. It also opens up opportunities for site supervisor, project manager, or specialist roles.

4. Unique Work Experiences

FIFO work is not your typical day job. You could be working in the middle of the outback, at a mine site in Western Australia, or on a road project in Queensland. The settings, tools, and scale of these jobs are unlike regular city work.

You also live in remote work camps with a close-knit crew, which often builds strong friendships and team spirit. Many local tradies say this lifestyle makes work more exciting, rewarding, and memorable, even if it’s tough at times.

Support Systems and Coping Strategies for FIFO Workers

FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) jobs in Australia can be rewarding, but they come with their own set of emotional and mental challenges. 

Long periods away from family, limited social interaction, and remote work environments can take a toll on a tradie’s well-being. That’s why it’s crucial to have strong support systems and coping strategies in place.

1. Mental Health Resources

Many FIFO tradies face feelings of loneliness, stress, or anxiety due to the isolating nature of remote work camps. 

Thankfully, several mental health services are available in Australia, tailored to workers in the mining and construction industries. 

Organizations like MATES in Construction, Beyond Blue, and Lifeline offer free, confidential support for mental health concerns. Employers are also increasingly partnering with these programs to provide on-site counseling and wellness check-ins.

2. Company Support Services

Leading mining and construction companies now offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) as part of their FIFO job packages. 

These programs provide access to trained counselors, wellness workshops, financial advice, and stress management tools. Some even run recreational activities at camp to help break monotony and boost morale among FIFO workers.

Companies also conduct routine mental health training for supervisors to recognize early signs of fatigue, stress, or burnout, especially important in high-risk FIFO tradie jobs in Australia.

3. Staying Connected with Loved Ones

Maintaining regular communication with family and friends plays a big role in mental wellness for FIFO tradies. 

Most modern work camps are equipped with Wi-Fi and mobile networks to help workers stay in touch via video calls, chats, or emails. Setting a communication schedule or sharing updates about daily routines can help bridge the emotional gap and reduce feelings of homesickness.

Some affordable tradies also use their rostered time off to fully unplug from work and reconnect with their loved ones, helping them recharge both mentally and emotionally.

Is FIFO Work Right for You?

Fly-In Fly-Out (FIFO) work isn’t just a job, it’s a lifestyle choice. Before jumping into a FIFO role in the mining or construction sector, it's important to take a step back and ask yourself if this way of working truly aligns with your personality, lifestyle, and long-term career goals.

Do you enjoy structure and routine? 

FIFO work often follows strict rosters like 2 weeks on, 1 week off. If you’re someone who thrives on consistency and can handle long periods away from home, this could suit you well.

Can you manage being away from family and friends for extended periods? 

If maintaining relationships and daily presence at home is a top priority, this might be a tough adjustment. However, some tradies find that their time off is more focused and meaningful because of the structured breaks.

How do you cope with solitude and remote environments? 

FIFO roles can be isolating, especially if you’re stationed at a remote site. If you're someone who enjoys your own company or is good at finding ways to stay mentally active, this could work in your favor.

What are your career and financial goals? 

FIFO jobs offer high salaries and growth potential. If you're aiming to build savings, gain valuable site experience, or step into supervisory roles, FIFO could be the right move.

In short, FIFO work isn’t for everyone, but for the right person, it can be a highly rewarding career path.

How to Find FIFO Opportunities in Australia?

Finding FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) tradie jobs in Australia might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right approach and tools, it can be a straightforward process. 

Whether you’re an experienced electrician, plumber, or just starting out in mining construction FIFO roles, there are plenty of ways to discover the right job for you.

1. Job Portals

Start by exploring popular job platforms like 

Seek, Indeed, and Jora, where many FIFO tradie jobs in Australia are regularly posted. You can filter listings based on location, trade, and salary to find something that fits your preferences. 

Keywords like “FIFO electrician salary Australia”, “FIFO mining jobs”, or “best FIFO trades to get into” will help you narrow down your search. Make sure your resume highlights your experience, licenses, and willingness to work in remote locations.

2. Recruitment Agencies

Specialist recruitment agencies like Hays, WorkPac, and Chandler Macleod are major players in placing tradies into FIFO roles. 

They often have exclusive access to contracts with big mining and construction companies. These agencies can also guide you through the application process, from resume writing to interview tips, and even help negotiate your package. 

If you're new to the FIFO world, a recruiter can be a valuable resource to break into the industry.

3. Join Professional Networks like Trusted Tradie

Joining a professional platform such as Trusted Tradie Network gives you an edge in finding quality FIFO opportunities. 

It not only connects you with potential employers but also helps you build credibility, gain industry insights, and become visible to clients and contractors looking for reliable, skilled tradies. 

Networks like this are especially useful for sole trader tradies looking to expand into government contracts, council work, or niche FIFO trades.

Conclusion: Is FIFO Life the Right Fit for You?

FIFO work in Australia’s mining and construction sectors offers tradies an incredible opportunity, high salaries, career growth, and the chance to work on some of the country’s biggest infrastructure projects. 

But it also comes with its share of challenges, like long stretches away from home, physical fatigue, and emotional strain.

If you are considering FIFO tradie jobs in Australia or already living the fly in fly out tradie lifestyle, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons. Understanding the demands, building support systems, and staying connected with loved ones can help you thrive in this unique work setup.