FIFO, DIDO, residential, 8 and 6, 2 and 1. If you're new to resources work in Western Australia, the job ads can read like code. Here's what it all means and how to pick the setup that suits your life.
FIFO: fly in, fly out
You fly from Perth (or a regional airport) to site, work a block of days, then fly home for your break. The employer usually covers flights and accommodation while you're on site. FIFO is common for remote operations in the Pilbara and other areas a long way from town.
Good for: people who want long breaks at home and are happy to be away for a full swing.
DIDO: drive in, drive out
Same idea, but you drive to site at the start of your swing. DIDO is common where the site is within a few hours of a regional centre, for example around Kalgoorlie and the Goldfields. Check whether travel time is paid and whether a vehicle or fuel allowance is included.
Residential or local
You live in or near the town and travel to work daily, like a normal job. Many roles in Kalgoorlie, Perth workshops and regional towns work this way. You get more time at home each week, but usually shorter blocks of days off.
Common rosters
2:1 (14 on, 7 off): two weeks on site, one week home. Common on FIFO operations.
8:6: eight days on, six off. Popular because the break is longer than a normal weekend.
Even time (7:7 or 14:14): equal days on and off. Less common, and often for experienced crew.
5:2 or 4:3: Monday to Friday style, typical for residential and workshop roles.
Shifts on site are usually long, often 12 hours, and may rotate between days and nights. Ask about this before you accept a role.
Questions to ask before you say yes
Is it FIFO, DIDO or local, and where do flights or travel start from?
What's the roster and shift length? Days, nights or both?
Is it casual, fixed-term or permanent?
What's the hourly rate, and are allowances or overtime included?
Every job on our open positions board lists the town, roster and employment type up front, so you know what you're applying for. Ready to go? Apply in two minutes. WA residents only.
