When it comes to high-paying trades in Australia, one role consistently stands out: FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) drilling. With booming mining sectors in remote areas and the ever-increasing demand for mineral resources, drillers play a vital role in maintaining production levels. But how much does a FIFO driller get paid, particularly in Victoria, Australia? With Plumber Warragul, we’ll explore average salaries, influencing factors, career progression, and how Victorian FIFO drillers compare to those in other states.
What Is a FIFO Driller?
A FIFO driller is typically employed in the mining, oil, and gas sectors, working on drilling rigs in remote locations. These professionals are flown in for a rostered period (often 2 weeks on, 1 week off) and then flown back to their home city—such as Melbourne, Geelong, or Ballarat. FIFO roles are prevalent in regional parts of Victoria, especially in mining operations across Gippsland and the Murray Basin.
LSI Keywords:
- mining jobs Victoria
- remote drilling sites
- FIFO roster system
- drilling rig work
- fly-in fly-out careers
So, How Much Does a FIFO Driller Get Paid in Victoria?
The average salary for a FIFO driller in Victoria ranges from AUD $120,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Entry-level drillers can expect salaries starting at $100,000, while senior drillers or drill rig managers can earn upwards of $200,000 with overtime and bonuses.
Base Salary Breakdown (2025 figures):
| Role | Annual Salary | Daily Rate | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Driller | $100,000 | ~$385 | ~$48 |
| Mid-Level Driller | $130,000 | ~$500 | ~$62 |
| Senior Driller | $180,000+ | ~$700+ | ~$85+ |
Source: Industry data and salary benchmarks across Victoria.
Factors That Influence FIFO Driller Salaries in Victoria
Understanding what drives these figures is key to evaluating the return on investment for working FIFO. Several variables can impact pay rates:
1. Experience & Certification
Drillers with additional certifications—such as Certificate IV in Drilling Operations or heavy vehicle licenses—typically earn more. Supervisory or safety training (e.g., HSR training) can add to salary potential.
2. Roster Type
More demanding rosters (e.g., 3:1 or 4:1) often come with remote area allowances or higher day rates. Locations further from Victoria’s metro areas may offer financial incentives for longer stints.
3. Employer Type
Major mining firms like BHP, Rio Tinto, or Newcrest Mining operating exploration sites in eastern Australia tend to offer more competitive salaries than subcontracting firms.
4. Location
Although FIFO jobs in Western Australia or Queensland are more common, there’s a rising trend of FIFO operations from Victoria to South Australia or Tasmania, driving pay rates slightly higher due to logistics.
Local Relevance: FIFO Drilling in Victoria, Australia
While Victoria isn’t traditionally known as a mining giant like WA, there are several active mining and mineral exploration sites in areas like Stawell, Bendigo, and East Gippsland. Victorian-based workers are often deployed to:
- Gippsland Basin (coal and gas)
- Mildura and Murray Basin (mineral sands)
- Broken Hill (NSW) or Mount Gambier (SA) as part of inter-state FIFO programs
This makes Melbourne Airport a key FIFO hub, with direct charter flights to remote worksites in regional Australia.
The FIFO Lifestyle: Is It Worth the Pay?
While the money can be great, FIFO work isn’t for everyone. Here’s a snapshot of the trade-offs:
Pros:
- High earning potential
- Extended time off between swings
- Strong superannuation and allowance structures
- Great for building wealth quickly
Cons:
- Physical and mental strain
- Long hours (12-14 hour shifts)
- Time away from family and friends
- Potential for isolation and burnout
FIFO drilling jobs also come with generous remote area tax offsets, employer-sponsored accommodation, and meal allowances, making them more financially rewarding than similar roles in metro areas. Visit Plumber Warragul for more.
Job Growth & Demand in Victoria
As of 2025, the Australian mining industry continues to see strong demand for critical minerals like lithium, rare earths, and gold. Victoria’s Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions forecasts moderate growth in resources-related employment, with drilling operators being one of the high-demand categories.
The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) also notes an uptick in drilling-related employment contracts, especially as infrastructure projects and environmental exploration programs expand.
Skills & Training That Boost Earnings
Investing in training is a proven way to boost your FIFO drilling salary in Victoria. Some highly sought-after certifications and skills include:
- High-Risk Work License (HRWL)
- Working at Heights / Confined Spaces training
- Cert IV in Surface Extraction Operations
- Experience with reverse circulation (RC) and diamond drilling rigs
Increased automation in rigs also rewards those with mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting skills.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Becoming a FIFO Driller in Victoria?
If you’re based in Victoria, Australia and exploring a career that combines financial reward, job stability, and practical skills, FIFO drilling is a compelling option. While the lifestyle isn’t without challenges, the generous pay—often exceeding six figures even for entry-level workers—makes it an attractive proposition for many tradespeople, especially those with fewer local employment options.
In 2025, the need for skilled drillers in regional and remote mining zones remains high, and those willing to commit to the FIFO lifestyle can leverage both job security and wealth-building opportunities.
