Preparing for Your Exit From FIFO Work

Working in FIFO roles can be a rewarding and lucrative experience, but it is often a chapter rather than the whole story in a person’s career. Whether you are planning to leave FIFO work because you want a new challenge, family reasons, health considerations, or simply a change of lifestyle, preparing for your exit thoughtfully is essential. Leaving FIFO work is a significant transition that affects not just your income but also your routine, relationships, and sense of identity.

In this blog, we will explore practical advice on how to prepare for this change in a way that supports your wellbeing, financial security, and long-term career goals. With some planning and reflection, you can move forward with confidence and purpose beyond the mine site.

Reflecting on Your Reasons for Leaving

Before you make any major decisions, it is important to reflect on why you want to leave FIFO work. Being clear about your motivations helps you plan effectively and avoid jumping into a situation that may not suit you in the long run.

Common reasons for leaving FIFO include wanting to spend more time with family, concerns about mental or physical health, the desire for a more stable routine, or pursuing a different career path. Sometimes the decision is prompted by external factors such as changes in the industry or company restructuring.

Write down your reasons and what you hope to achieve by exiting FIFO work. This clarity will guide your next steps and help you set realistic goals for the future.

Assessing Your Financial Position

FIFO jobs often come with attractive pay packages, which can create financial security or allow for significant savings. When you leave, your income might reduce, so it’s crucial to assess your financial position before making the transition.

Start by calculating your savings, ongoing expenses, debts, and any other financial commitments. Consider how long your savings can support you during the transition period, especially if you plan to take time off or retrain.

If you have superannuation, review your balance and options with a financial adviser if needed. Think about budgeting carefully and adjusting your lifestyle to match your new income expectations.

Planning ahead financially reduces stress and gives you more freedom to choose the right path after FIFO work.

Planning Your Next Career Move

One of the biggest questions when leaving FIFO work is what to do next. Some people return to local jobs in their hometowns, others pursue further study, and some change industries entirely. The key is to take the time to explore your options rather than rushing into the first opportunity.

Consider your skills and experience gained during FIFO work. Many of these skills such as teamwork, safety awareness, time management, and technical expertise are highly transferable to other roles. Reflect on what you enjoyed about FIFO work and what you want to avoid in your next job.

If you are unsure about your next step, career counselling or coaching can provide valuable guidance. Research industries and roles that interest you, and consider job shadowing or volunteering to gain insight before committing.

Training or upskilling might be necessary if you want to enter a different field. There are often government grants or subsidised courses available to help workers transition, so explore these options early.

Preparing Your Resume and Application Materials

Your resume and cover letter are key tools for securing a new job outside FIFO. Make sure they highlight your relevant skills and experience in a way that resonates with local employers who might not be familiar with FIFO work.

Tailor your resume for each job application by emphasising transferable skills and achievements. Avoid jargon specific to FIFO or mining unless it is relevant to the new role.

If you need help, consider using professional resume writing services or career centres which can provide feedback and support. Practice writing cover letters that clearly explain why you are making a career change and what you bring to the table.

Addressing Mental and Physical Health

Leaving FIFO work can bring relief from the stresses of shift work and remote living, but it can also create uncertainty and identity challenges. It is normal to feel a mix of emotions during this transition.

Prioritise your mental health by maintaining routines that support wellbeing such as exercise, healthy eating, and socialising. If you experience anxiety, depression, or other issues, seek professional help early.

Physical health can also be affected by the change in lifestyle. If you have any ongoing medical concerns related to your FIFO work, continue to manage them with your healthcare provider.

Joining support groups or connecting with others who have left FIFO work can provide encouragement and advice during this time.

Building a Support Network

A strong support network is vital as you prepare to exit FIFO work. Your family, friends, and mentors can offer emotional support and practical help as you navigate this change.

Communicate openly with your loved ones about your plans and feelings. Their understanding and encouragement can ease the transition and help you stay motivated.

Networking with former FIFO workers or industry professionals can also be useful. They may have advice on finding new opportunities or coping with the challenges of leaving FIFO life.

Managing Your Departure Professionally

Leaving your FIFO job on good terms is important for your reputation and future opportunities. Give appropriate notice to your employer and follow any contractual obligations.

Offer to assist with the handover or training of your replacement if possible. Maintaining professionalism shows respect and can lead to positive references or even part-time or casual work opportunities in the future.

Keep in touch with colleagues who can be part of your professional network. The mining and resource industries are tightly knit, and you never know when connections may be valuable.

Preparing for Lifestyle Changes

FIFO work comes with a very particular lifestyle characterised by long periods away and intense work shifts. Exiting this lifestyle means adjusting to a new rhythm.

Think about how your daily routine will change and what you need to do to create balance. If you are moving to local work, anticipate how your commute, family time, and social activities will shift.

For many, leaving FIFO work means re-establishing roots in their community. Take time to reconnect with local activities, hobbies, and friends.

If you are moving to a new place, plan how to settle in and make it feel like home. Building new routines and support systems is key.

Staying Open to Opportunities

Finally, remember that leaving FIFO work is not an end but a transition. The skills and experiences you have gained create a solid foundation for many new possibilities.

Be open to different opportunities and keep learning. You might find roles you hadn’t considered before that bring new satisfaction and growth.

Keep setting goals and reviewing your progress as you build your next chapter.

Final Thoughts

Preparing to exit FIFO work requires thoughtful planning, self-reflection, and practical steps. From understanding your motivations and finances to updating your resume and caring for your wellbeing, each aspect plays a role in a successful transition.

Change can be challenging but also rewarding. With the right mindset and support, you can navigate this period smoothly and create a fulfilling future beyond FIFO.

If you are considering leaving FIFO work and would like personalised advice on career planning, resume writing, or managing the transition, please reach out. Taking the first step towards your next chapter is an exciting journey, and you don’t have to do it alone.

If you’d like personalised support—whether it’s professional Resume and Cover Letter writing, FIFO Resume, Employer Sponsorship Resumes and Cover Letters, SEEK and LinkedIn profile optimisation, Selection Criteria for Government Jobs, one-on-one Job Interview Coaching or Other Professional Writing Services —call us on 0423 686 904 or email us at hello@adriennasresumes.com