Everyone talks about FIFO money.
Very few people explain what you actually work.
That’s where most people get it wrong. Instead of understanding the roster, they chase the salary first.
The reality is simple. The roster controls your lifestyle, your fatigue, and how long you last in the industry.
What a FIFO Roster Actually Means
A FIFO roster is your work swing versus your time off.
In other words, it defines how long you are on site and how long you are at home.
Here are the main ones you’ll see.
2:1 Roster
Two weeks on site, one week off. This is common across mining and construction.
3:1 Roster (Construction)
Three weeks on, one week off. It’s standard on major projects, although it’s becoming less common as people prefer shorter swings.
2:2 Roster (Maintenance)
Two weeks on, two weeks off. Because of the balance, this is one of the best long-term lifestyle rosters.
8:6 Roster
Eight days on, six days off. This is very common across WA mine sites.
7:7 Roster
Seven days on, seven days off. It’s an even-time roster, often used in processing and maintenance roles.
What the Company Actually Pays For
Most FIFO roles include the following.
Flights
Usually to and from Perth. However, some roles will fly from other capital cities, especially for high-demand trades.
Accommodation
Provided while you’re on site.
Meals
All meals are covered. That includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Because of this, many people put on weight during their first few swings.
What Your Day Actually Looks Like
No matter the roster, your day follows a routine.
Typically, you wake up around 4:30am to 5:00am. Then you attend a pre-start meeting before starting a 10 to 12 hour shift.
After that, it’s dinner, shower, and sleep.
This repeats for the entire swing.
Importantly, there are no weekends on site. Instead, your break between swings becomes your “weekend.”
Pay vs Roster Reality
This is where expectations need to be realistic.
3:1 and 2:1
These rosters offer higher earning potential. However, they also involve more hours and faster fatigue build-up.
2:2, 7:7, 8:6
These usually mean lower total income. On the other hand, they offer a much better work-life balance and are more sustainable long term.
The rule is simple.
More time on site equals more money.
More time off equals a better lifestyle.
Construction vs Maintenance Rosters
There is a clear difference between these.
Construction
Typically 3:1 or 2:1. These are project-based roles with longer swings and higher short-term income. However, burnout risk is higher.
Maintenance
Usually 2:2, 8:6, or 7:7. These roles are ongoing, more structured, and better for long-term sustainability. Because of that, they are also more competitive to get into.
A common pathway is to start in camp roles and then move into site-based work.
FIFO Entry Pathway
https://thefifoinsider.com/fifo-entry-pathway/
Best Roster for Beginners
Most entry-level roles will land you in a 2:1 or 3:1 roster.
These include:
- Trade Assistant
- Drill Offsider
- Labour hire
- Utility
If you’re unsure about these roles, start here.
FIFO Tickets Australia
https://thefifoinsider.com/fifo-tickets-australia/
FIFO Utility Jobs With No Experience
https://thefifoinsider.com/fifo-utility-jobs-no-experience/
The Mistake Most People Make
Most people focus on the pay instead of the roster.
However, FIFO isn’t difficult because of the work.
It becomes difficult because of repetition, isolation, and long swings.
For example, a 3:1 roster sounds good until you’ve done 21 straight days of 12-hour shifts.
What This Means for You
Before chasing FIFO, decide what you actually want.
Are you chasing short-term money, or long-term sustainability?
Because of this, your first roster will shape your experience.
Where to Find FIFO Jobs
Start here.
https://www.seek.com.au
https://www.indeed.com.au
Then apply properly.
How to Apply for FIFO Jobs
https://thefifoinsider.com/how-to-apply-for-fifo-jobs/
Want Help Getting Your First Role?
Most people don’t miss out because of the roster.
Instead, they miss out because their resume isn’t aligned with what mining companies are actually looking for.
If you want to fix that, start here.
Resume Optimisation
https://thefifoinsider.com/resume-optimisation/
Or get direct guidance.
Consultation
https://thefifoinsider.com/consultation/
Final Thoughts
Understanding the roster is just as important as getting the job.
Get this right early, and you avoid a lot of problems later.
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