Does FIFO provide accommodation?
FIFO employers typically provide on-site accommodation in mining villages or camp-style facilities during the working swing. However, many workers and project teams also source furnished apartments in gateway cities such as Perth, Brisbane or Darwin for their days-off swing, using services like Extended Stays to find quality options.
Do FIFO workers get their own rooms?
Modern FIFO accommodation on Australian mine sites almost always provides private, single-occupancy rooms with an ensuite bathroom, climate control and Wi-Fi. Shared facilities such as gyms, recreation rooms and dining halls are separate. Standards vary between legacy camp facilities and newer resort-style villages, so it is worth clarifying before accepting a role.
What roster do FIFO workers typically work?
Common FIFO rosters in Australia include two weeks on and one week off, two weeks on and two weeks off, or eight days on and six days off. Shifts are usually 12 hours long during the working swing. The rotating structure is designed to give workers substantial rest periods away from the site.
What is a FIFO salary in Australia?
FIFO salaries in Australia range from around $90,000 to $120,000 per year for entry-level roles. Skilled trades and operators earn between $120,000 and $150,000. Senior project leadership roles often exceed $200,000. Packages usually include shift allowances, superannuation and employer-covered travel to and from site.
Can FIFO workers claim accommodation as a tax deduction or LAFHA?
Eligible FIFO workers living away from their usual home may qualify for the Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA), which can reduce the after-tax cost of accommodation. The ATO sets the eligibility rules. Workers should confirm their position with a registered tax agent, as individual circumstances vary significantly.
What is the difference between FIFO and DIDO accommodation in Australia?
FIFO workers fly to site, typically using charter flights from hubs like Perth Airport or Brisbane Airport. DIDO (Drive In Drive Out) workers drive from a nearby regional centre such as Mackay to Bowen Basin mines. Both groups often use furnished apartments in gateway cities or regional hubs for their days-off swing.
How long can I book FIFO accommodation through Extended Stays?
Extended Stays sources accommodation for stays of 14 nights and above. Bookings can run from a single swing break of two weeks up to 12 months or more for long-duration projects. Terms can often be adjusted if your project timeline changes, so you are not locked into a rigid lease from the start.
What documentation does Extended Stays provide for project cost reporting?
Extended Stays provides itemised quotes and booking confirmations suitable for cost-centre reporting, project budget tracking and expense claims. This documentation can also support LAFHA declarations, though we recommend workers confirm their tax position with a registered tax agent before making any claim.
Which Australian regions have the highest demand for FIFO accommodation?
The Pilbara region in Western Australia, home to major iron ore and LNG operations, and the Bowen Basin in Queensland, the centre of Australian metallurgical coal production, drive the highest FIFO accommodation demand. Darwin and the NT also see strong demand linked to offshore gas projects including the INPEX Ichthys LNG facility.
Can Extended Stays source accommodation for a team of 20 or more FIFO workers?
Yes. Extended Stays regularly sources accommodation for project teams ranging from a handful of individuals to groups of 50 or more. Submit a single brief with your headcount, locations and dates, and we will send consolidated options across all required markets so your team is housed under one coordinated arrangement.