Do FIFO jobs pay for your flights?

Often yes, from the nominated departure point (“ex Perth”) to site, but there are exceptions, and coverage can change by client, roster, and contract. We’d suggest treating flight inclusions as job-specific and always checking the fine print before you accept an offer. For example, some roles on our board explicitly include “flights, camp and meals”, while others note “ex Perth” or even ask that out-of-state candidates cover their own leg to WA.

 

 

What “ex Perth” means on a job role

When a job ad says “FIFO ex Perth”, it generally means the employer (or client) funds and organises the Perth ⇄ site charter/commercial leg. If you live outside that hub, you’ll usually need to pay your way to Perth unless otherwise stated in the ad or contract. You’ll see “ex Perth” language in a number of our current mining roles.

If you live outside WA (or away from the hub)

While some clients might occasionally offer departures from other cities, we mostly see WA mining roles set up ex Perth. Where ads do allow broader hubs, it will typically be spelled out. If it isn’t explicit, we’d recommend assuming Perth is the point of hire and confirming in writing what legs are covered before you accept. In at least one recent listing, out-of-state candidates were advised they’d need to fund their own flights to WA.

If you’re relocating or considering interstate FIFO, ask about mobilisation (first swing), demobilisation (final swing), and what happens if you’re redeployed to a different state or site mid-contract. Policies can differ and redeployments may change who pays for flights.

How to read our job ads quickly (flight clues)

When you scan our listings, you’ll often find flight info in the “What’s on offer” or “Particulars” sections:

  • Look for phrases like “Flights, camp accommodation and meals provided” (tends to mean the hub ⇄ site leg is covered).
  • “Roster ex Perth” indicates the nominated hub; check whether any other departure points are offered.
  • If there’s no explicit mention of flights, don’t assume they’re included—ask your consultant to clarify with the client.

Browse current roles on our Mining jobs board and feel free to ask our team to confirm inclusions for any ad that’s light on detail.

Contract checklist (before you say yes)

Because coverage can vary, we suggest getting the following points confirmed in writing:

  1. Departure point(s)/hub(s) – Usually Perth; if you’re outside the hub, clarify whether your home ⇄ hub leg is included or self-funded.
  2. Mobilisation/Demobilisation – Are first/last swings treated differently?
  3. Rebooking & delays – Who organises changes, and who pays if a flight is cancelled or delayed?
  4. Redeployment – If you move to a different site/state mid-contract, does flight coverage change? There have been instances where coverage became candidate-funded after redeployment, which catches people out.
  5. Baggage & transfers – Weight limits on charters, camp ⇄ airport shuttles, and ground transport at each end.

If the ad is vague, your Scotford Fennessy consultant can check the client’s policy and confirm inclusions before you commit.

Tax basics

As a rule of thumb, if your employer provides or reimburses the site flights, you generally can’t claim them yourself. Travel between home and your regular place of work (or to the nominated departure point) is usually not deductible. There are nuances (e.g., certain temporary work travel scenarios), so we’d recommend getting tailored advice from a registered tax professional. For current guidance, see:

Ready to explore roles?

   

 

Do FIFO jobs pay for flights?

Chevron Down

Often the hub ⇄ site flights are covered, but it’s not universal. Our ads will typically say “flights provided” (when included) or at least note “ex Perth” so you can infer the point of hire. If it’s unclear, ask us to confirm with the client.

What if I live outside WA?

Chevron Down

Unless the ad or contract states otherwise, you should assume you’ll need to fund your home ⇄ Perth leg. Some roles make this explicit for out-of-state candidates; others may be negotiable depending on client needs.

Can departure hubs change?

Chevron Down

Occasionally, yes. Some employers expand their charter network to regional hubs, while others stay strictly ex Perth.

For example FMG and BHP have started offering Busselton flights recently: FMG trials Busselton flights, BHP Busselton FIFO flights

Can I claim FIFO flights on tax if I pay?

Chevron Down

It depends on the facts, and the ATO’s rules are strict. Home ⇄ work travel is generally not deductible, and employer-paid flights typically aren’t claimable by the employee. Please check the latest ATO guidance and get professional advice.

The Right People Make Life Easier

We’ll make sure your business gets the right person. The first time. We want you to invest in someone who is a good fit for your company culture. Someone with aptitude who can capitalise on opportunities and realise your business goals.

You know how important it is to get recruitment right, but it’s not an easy process without someone to guide you through it. That’s what we’re here for. We’ll find the person you need for tomorrow so you can focus on what your business needs today.

© Scotford Fennessy
Website by Distl