If you have made it to the reference check stage of your FIFO job application, congratulations. You are close. This is one of the final steps before an employer makes you an offer. It is also a stage that many candidates underestimate or feel anxious about.
This guide breaks down exactly what a FIFO reference check is, how the process works, and what you need to know about one of the commonly used tools in Australian recruitment: Referoo.
What Is a FIFO Reference Check?
A reference check is a step in the hiring process where a potential employer contacts people from your past to verify your work history, skills, and overall suitability for the role. These people are called referees. They are usually former supervisors or managers who can speak to your performance on the job.
For FIFO and mining roles, reference checks carry real weight. Companies need to know you are reliable, safety-conscious, and able to operate in a remote team environment. A strong reference can push you over the line. A weak one can cost you the role entirely.
If you want to understand more about the full application process, check out our guide on how to apply for FIFO jobs.
How Many References Will You Need?
Most FIFO employers and labour hire companies ask for two to three referees. These should ideally be direct supervisors or managers, not colleagues or mates. The more relevant the referee is to the type of work you are applying for, the better.
Some mining contractors may specifically request your most recent supervisor or site manager rather than allowing you to choose any previous referee. Always check what the recruiter is asking for before you submit your details.
If you are new to the industry and do not have mining-specific references, do not panic. Referees from other industries who can speak to your reliability, work ethic, physical capability, and attitude will still carry value. Check out our guide on FIFO utility jobs with no experience for more on entering the industry without a mining background.
Who Should You Use as a Referee?
This is where many candidates go wrong. Choosing the right referee matters as much as anything else in your application.
A good referee is someone who:
- Was your direct supervisor or manager
- Can speak specifically to your work performance
- Will respond quickly when contacted
- Has something positive and relevant to say about you
Avoid listing personal friends, family members, or people you have not worked with in a professional capacity. Always contact your referees before submitting their details. Make sure they are expecting to be contacted and are aware of the role you are applying for.
How Does a FIFO Reference Check Work?
Once you reach this stage of the hiring process, here is what typically happens.
Step 1: You Are Asked to Provide Referee Details
The recruiter or employer will ask you to supply the names, job titles, phone numbers, and email addresses of your referees. In most cases this happens after your interview and before a formal offer is made.
Step 2: The System Contacts Your Referees
Many Australian recruitment agencies and mining companies now use automated online platforms to manage reference checks, although some employers still conduct references by phone. Rather than a recruiter playing telephone tag, the platform sends your referees a direct request. They receive it via email or SMS and complete the check online at a time that suits them.
Step 3: Referees Complete a Questionnaire
Your referees receive a structured questionnaire to fill out. Employers select a set of questions covering your work performance, reliability, teamwork, safety behaviour, and overall suitability for the role.
Step 4: The Report Is Generated
Once your referees submit their responses, a detailed report becomes available to the employer on the platform. The recruiter reviews this as part of their final hiring decision.
Step 5: A Decision Is Made
If references come back positive, most employers move quickly to make a verbal or written offer. If the references raise concerns, the recruiter may follow up with you directly or, in some cases, the offer may not proceed.
What Is Referoo?
Referoo is a commonly used online reference checking platform in Australia. You may encounter it during your FIFO job application process.
Referoo is an Australian-owned platform designed to make reference checks fast and secure. It is SSL secured for privacy and includes a fraud detection system designed to flag suspicious references. The platform works on any device and is used by recruiters across the mining and resources sector.
In short, it sits between you, your referees, and the recruiter. It handles the entire process digitally.
How Referoo Works Step by Step
The recruiter enters your details into the platform. You then input your referees’ contact information. Referees receive a request via email or SMS to complete the reference online. The recruiter receives automatic update notifications and can view results in real time as referees respond.
From the referee’s perspective, they simply click the link and answer a series of questions about you. The whole thing takes around ten to fifteen minutes.
Does Referoo Check for Fake References?
Yes, and this is important to understand. Referoo states that it uses fraud detection technology designed to help identify suspicious or potentially fraudulent references. Do not attempt to put forward fake references or have someone pretend to be a former employer. Mining companies take this seriously. Getting caught will almost certainly end your application and may damage your reputation with recruiters and employers.
Preparing for a FIFO Reference Check
Getting your referees ready before you submit their details can make a big difference in how quickly you move through the process.
Here is what to do:
- Call or message your referee and let them know they will be contacted
- Tell them the role you are applying for and the company name
- Remind them of the dates you worked together and what your role involved
- Ask them to respond promptly when they receive the request
Mining and labour hire recruiters move fast. If your referee takes a week to respond, you may lose the role to another candidate who had their references back within 24 hours.
What Happens If a Reference Is Not Strong?
Not every reference comes back glowing. Be honest with yourself about who you put forward. If you had a difficult relationship with a former manager, do not use them as a referee, even if they were your most direct supervisor.
If a recruiter asks why you are not using a particular employer as a referee, you can be transparent. Recruiters understand that not every working relationship ends perfectly.
For more on avoiding mistakes that can cost you in the application process, read our guide on common mining job application mistakes.
Where FIFO Reference Checks Fit in the Hiring Process
A FIFO reference check is just one part of the broader pre-employment process. A typical FIFO application involves an online application, a phone or video interview, reference checks, a pre-employment medical including a drug and alcohol screen, and then mobilisation paperwork.
To make sure you are across everything you need, read our full breakdown of the FIFO entry pathway and what to expect during the FIFO mining medical.
Final Thoughts
A FIFO reference check is not something to stress about if you have been honest throughout your application and you have chosen the right people to vouch for you. Prepare your referees in advance, respond quickly to any requests from the recruiter, and make sure the contact details you provide are accurate and up to date.
If you are still building your resume or preparing your application, the FIFO Resume Optimisation service can help you put your best foot forward long before you ever reach the reference stage.
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