Working a fly in fly out job, or FIFO (Fly-In-Fly-Out) as most Aussies call it, has become one of the most talked about career paths in Australia. With mining and resource industries continuing to drive strong employment across the country, thousands of people pack their bags each week to work in remote areas before flying back home for their time off. While the lifestyle has plenty of perks, there are also plenty of misconceptions floating around about what it’s really like to live and work FIFO.

If you have ever thought about joining the FIFO world, or simply wondered what life is really like for those who do, it’s worth separating the myths from the reality. Here are five of the biggest myths about FIFO jobs and the truth behind them.

Myth One: FIFO Workers Earn Easy Money

One of the most common assumptions about FIFO work is that it’s an easy ticket to big money. The truth is, yes, FIFO jobs can be well paid, but that pay comes with serious responsibilities and sacrifices. Many workers put in long hours, often twelve-hour shifts in demanding conditions, far from the comforts of home. The pay isn’t simply for the hours worked, but for the commitment, physical effort and time spent away from family and friends.

The higher wages reflect not only the remoteness of the worksite but also the skill and dedication required. A heavy diesel mechanic, electrician, or drill operator working in the middle of Western Australia’s Pilbara region might earn more than their city-based counterparts, but they also face intense heat, isolation, and weeks away from loved ones. The work can be physically tough and mentally draining, which is why that pay packet is as much a reward for resilience as it is for skill.

So, while the money can be good, it’s anything but easy. FIFO work suits people who are self-motivated, resilient, and prepared to work hard for their rewards.

Myth Two: FIFO Workers Have No Work-Life Balance

Another big myth is that FIFO workers have no life outside of work. Many people assume that being away for long stretches means you miss out on everything that matters — birthdays, social events, and time with family. While there is some truth to the challenge of balancing work and personal life, the FIFO lifestyle actually allows for a different kind of balance.

Most FIFO rosters include blocks of time off that many nine to five workers could only dream about. Depending on the company, you might work two weeks on and one week off, or even eight days on and six days off. That means when you’re home, you’re really home. You’re not checking emails after dinner or stressing about the next day’s commute. Many FIFO workers use that downtime to travel, spend quality time with their families, or pursue hobbies that a standard work schedule wouldn’t allow.

The key to finding balance is making the most of your time off and maintaining strong communication with family and friends while away. Modern camps often have good phone and internet coverage, allowing workers to video call their kids or catch up with mates after a shift. It’s a different rhythm, but one that can absolutely support a healthy work-life balance for those who plan it well.

Myth Three: FIFO Life Is All About Drinking and Partying

For years, FIFO culture has carried an unfair stereotype that it’s all about hard work followed by hard partying. While this image might have been more accurate in the early days of the mining boom, today’s FIFO environment is much more professional and regulated.

Most mining and resource companies now have strict alcohol and drug policies, and many camps are either dry or have tight limits on consumption. There’s also a much stronger focus on health and wellbeing than ever before. Modern camps often feature gyms, walking tracks, sports facilities, and wellness programs to help workers stay fit and mentally strong.

Many FIFO workers choose to spend their downtime at camp working out, reading, studying online, or simply resting. The reality is that after a long day on site, most people would rather have a good meal, a shower, and a proper night’s sleep than a big night out. The culture has matured and shifted towards promoting healthy habits and personal development rather than the party image it once had.

Myth Four: FIFO Jobs Are Only for Men

It’s true that historically, FIFO work has been dominated by men, especially in heavy industries like mining, oil, and gas. However, this has changed dramatically in recent years. More women are joining the FIFO workforce than ever before, taking on roles across operations, trades, logistics, administration, and management.

Companies have made major strides toward inclusivity, offering better facilities and support for women on site. Separate and comfortable accommodation, improved amenities, and family-friendly policies have made FIFO work more accessible to everyone. Many women say they enjoy the same sense of camaraderie, opportunity, and financial independence as their male counterparts.

The growing diversity in FIFO teams has also improved workplace culture overall. Different perspectives, communication styles, and leadership approaches have led to more positive and supportive environments. The idea that FIFO is “a bloke’s world” is quickly becoming outdated, as more women prove that these jobs are for anyone with the skills and determination to succeed.

Myth Five: FIFO Work Leads to Poor Mental Health

There’s no denying that FIFO work can be mentally challenging. Being away from home, working long shifts, and living in a remote environment can take a toll. However, the myth that FIFO work inevitably leads to poor mental health overlooks the many initiatives and resources now in place to support workers.

In recent years, both companies and the wider industry have taken major steps to prioritise mental wellbeing. Most sites now have dedicated wellbeing programs, on-site counsellors, and peer support networks. Workers are encouraged to speak up about mental health issues without fear of stigma. Regular check-ins, access to Employee Assistance Programs, and mental health training have become standard across the sector.

Just as importantly, there’s been a cultural shift among workers themselves. Conversations about mental health are far more open now than they were a decade ago. Teams look out for each other, and there’s a growing sense that looking after your mates includes checking in emotionally, not just physically.

Maintaining good mental health while working FIFO is very achievable when workers take advantage of available support and build strong connections both on site and at home. The lifestyle can actually promote resilience and self-awareness, helping many people become more grounded and appreciative of the time they spend with loved ones.

The Truth About FIFO Life

The FIFO lifestyle isn’t for everyone, but for many Australians, it’s a rewarding and fulfilling career path. It offers opportunities to earn good money, develop specialised skills, and experience a sense of camaraderie that few other jobs can match. It also provides the chance to enjoy significant blocks of time off, which can be used to rest, travel, or focus on personal goals.

What’s most important is going into FIFO work with realistic expectations. It’s not a holiday, and it’s not an easy ride, but it can be a great fit for those who thrive on routine, challenge, and adventure. Like any job, it comes with its own pressures and rewards — and understanding both sides is the key to making it work for you.

So the next time you hear someone talk about FIFO life as nothing but cash, isolation, or long days away, remember that the truth is far more balanced. For many, FIFO isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle that, when managed well, can bring incredible opportunities and a strong sense of purpose.

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