Adventure calling: Malaysians seeking better pay mine benefits of Australia’s FIFO work

Malaysians in Australia’s mining sector say the money and unique environment help offset the demanding nature of fly-in, fly-out work

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An excavator loads iron ore into a truck at a mine in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Photo: Reuters

Published: 11:30am, 14 Jul 2024

Australia’s mining sector continues to grow as a pillar of the country’s economy, driven by a diverse and skilled workforce that includes an increasing number of Malaysians. Drawn by the lure of high wages and new adventures, these workers must navigate both the harsh realities and unique rewards of one of the world’s most demanding industries.

The most challenging mining jobs are taken up by FIFO (fly-in fly-out) workers, who travel to remote work sites for extended periods, often staying in temporary accommodation provided by their employers. They typically work long shifts for several days or weeks before returning home for a break, a lifestyle that demands adaptability and resilience since it involves balancing intense work schedules with periods of rest and family time.

Pauline Chuo is the embodiment of the Malaysian workers’ ability to adapt to these challenging conditions. The 32-year-old electrical engineer from Sibu, Sarawak spent five years in her home country’s construction sector before making the leap to Perth in 2022, alongside her husband.

Despite the abundance of engineering opportunities in the city, Chuo had her sights set on a different goal: landing a FIFO (fly-in, fly-out) role. It was no easy path, as she faced rejection from seven such positions due to a lack of relevant experience.

Pauline Chuo, a 32-year-old electrical engineer from Sibu, Sarawak, is among the Malaysian FIFO (fly-in fly-out) workers in Australia’s mining sector. Photo: Handout

But Chuo refused to be deterred. Through sheer persistence, she ultimately landed a position within a diverse engineering team, connecting with the right opportunity on LinkedIn. “For me, this role felt like a miracle,” she said, reflecting on the breakthrough, “especially after facing rejection from so many FIFO roles.”

A significant influence in her pursuit of FIFO work was her father, who worked on a BIBO (bus-in bus-out) basis in logging back in Sibu. His dedication and work ethic left a lasting impression on Chuo.