Fly In, Fly Out: 'I made $141,000 in nine months - and had two months off at Christmas'

"If you're unfamiliar with the acronym and its rigorous but rewarding demands, FIFO has been around for hundreds of years. Essentially, it refers to temporary employment in a remote location, with Australia long regarded as a key destination. The task is simple yet challenging - work long hours in an intense job in short bursts, earn big and hopefully return home the happier for it. But there are notable concerns surrounding physical and mental health. To put it plainly, FIFO is not for everyone."

""In my very first year, I earned AUS$141,000 [€79,600] in nine months of work. And I had two months off at Christmas time. Yes, the work is hard, but your costs are virtually zero. In my first year, I wasn't renting anywhere in Perth - all my wages were going into my pocket. I wasn't paying for rent, I wasn't paying for food."

"Having previously worked as an events manager in Belfast, McIlwaine found himself in a highly common and precarious position once Covid hit - no more work. He had always wanted to travel, and Australia felt like the right fit. He planned ahead, and despite his lack of experience in the mechanical field, he managed to land himself a FIFO job within 28 days of landing in Perth."

FIFO refers to temporary employment in remote locations, commonly in Australia, involving concentrated work periods with long daily shifts. Workers often do 12-hour shifts, seven days a week, for multi-week blocks, producing high weekly hours. Pay can be substantial and tax-advantaged, with earnings augmented by accommodation and flights often covered while on site, reducing living costs. Some workers transition from unrelated jobs and secure positions quickly despite limited experience. Physical and mental health challenges are notable, and the demanding schedule and isolation make FIFO unsuitable for many individuals.

Read at Irish Independent