Introduction: The Hidden Backbone of Every Mine Site
If you have ever stepped inside a mining camp or remote site, you know how essential cleanliness and hygiene are to daily life. Every shift, hundreds of workers return covered in dust, oil, and sweat. They expect clean rooms, fresh sheets, and spotless kitchens. Behind that order and comfort is the FIFO cleaner.
FIFO cleaners are the quiet force that keeps these massive operations running smoothly. They work long hours, handle demanding physical tasks, and ensure that every part of the camp meets strict safety and hygiene standards. It is honest, steady work — and one of the most common ways for newcomers to get their first job in the FIFO world.
This guide explains everything you need to know about becoming a FIFO cleaner in 2025, from what the job involves to what qualifications you need and how to apply.
1. What FIFO Cleaning Jobs Involve
FIFO cleaning roles focus on maintaining cleanliness and hygiene across all areas of a remote site or camp. You could be cleaning accommodation rooms, bathrooms, offices, dining areas, or industrial spaces.
Typical Duties
- Cleaning and disinfecting bathrooms, toilets, and showers
- Vacuuming, mopping, and dusting living quarters
- Stripping and replacing bed linen
- Cleaning kitchens and dining halls
- Emptying bins and managing waste disposal
- Re-stocking cleaning supplies and amenities
- Reporting maintenance issues and safety hazards
- Following strict safety, chemical handling, and PPE procedures
Cleaners generally work 10–12 hour shifts, often starting before or after meal times to avoid peak activity periods. Most sites roster two weeks on and one week off, with flights, meals, and accommodation provided.
2. Where FIFO Cleaning Jobs Are Found
FIFO cleaning jobs are spread across Australia’s major resource regions.
Western Australia (WA)
- Pilbara Region: Port Hedland, Newman, Tom Price, and Karratha host massive BHP, Rio Tinto, and Fortescue operations.
- Goldfields: Kalgoorlie and Leinster camps have consistent cleaning and utility roles.
Queensland (QLD)
- Bowen Basin: Major mines near Moranbah, Emerald, and Blackwater frequently recruit new cleaners.
- Surat Basin: Gas and coal seam projects around Roma and Miles employ large camp service teams.
Northern Territory and South Australia
- Projects near Katherine, Darwin, Roxby Downs, and Olympic Dam hire cleaners for both mining and exploration camps.
Typical Employers
- Sodexo
- Compass Group (ESS)
- Morris Corporation
- Cater Care
- ISS Facility Services
These companies provide catering, housekeeping, and maintenance services to mining clients and regularly list FIFO cleaner roles.
3. Qualifications and Requirements
You do not need a trade or degree to become a FIFO cleaner, but you must meet some basic requirements.
Essential Tickets
- White Card (CPCWHS1001): Required if cleaning near construction or maintenance areas.
- Standard 11 Mining Induction: Required for most Queensland mining sites.
- Manual Handling Certificate: Teaches safe lifting and movement techniques.
- First Aid and CPR: Helpful for safety awareness and employability.
Other Requirements
- National Police Clearance (under 12 months old)
- Pre-Employment Medical: Includes drug and alcohol testing, hearing, vision, and fitness checks.
- Up-to-date vaccinations: Some camps require proof of influenza and COVID vaccinations.
Skills That Help You Get Hired
- Previous experience in cleaning, hospitality, or housekeeping
- Attention to detail and pride in presentation
- Good time management and teamwork
- Basic understanding of Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) rules
- Reliability and a strong work ethic
4. Pay and Roster Expectations
Average Pay in 2025:
- $32–$40 per hour for standard cleaning roles
- Up to $45 per hour for team leaders or experienced utilities
Typical Rosters:
- 2:1 (two weeks on, one week off)
- 8:6 or 14:7 rosters are also common
Many cleaners report earning between $85,000 and $100,000 per year, depending on overtime, allowances, and site location.
5. A Day in the Life of a FIFO Cleaner
A typical shift starts early — sometimes at 4:30am. After breakfast in the camp mess, cleaners meet for a pre-start safety briefing. You receive your task list and cleaning supplies from the supervisor and head out to your assigned zone.
Morning tasks may include:
- Stripping beds and cleaning bathrooms in the accommodation wing
- Wiping down common areas and vacuuming hallways
Afternoons might focus on:
- Deep-cleaning kitchens and dining areas after lunch service
- Collecting rubbish and sanitising bins
- Restocking supplies for the next day
Evenings are for downtime. Most camps offer gyms, recreation rooms, or movie nights to help workers unwind before another early morning.
6. How to Apply for FIFO Cleaner Jobs
Step 1: Prepare Your Resume
Highlight any cleaning, hospitality, or manual work experience. Focus on your ability to follow procedures, work long shifts, and meet safety standards.
Step 2: Obtain the Required Tickets
Start with a White Card and Standard 11 if possible. Many training providers offer short online courses with national accreditation.
Step 3: Apply with Major Contractors
Register directly with:
- Sodexo Careers
- Compass Group (ESS) Careers
- Morris Corporation Jobs
- Cater Care Careers
- ISS Facility Services Jobs
These companies manage most camp operations for mining clients and hire continuously.
Step 4: Prepare for the Medical
Stay fit and avoid alcohol or drugs in the weeks before your assessment. Some companies also require a functional capacity test, which checks your ability to lift, bend, and carry.
Step 5: Be Flexible
Cleaners who are willing to travel to remote regions or work night shifts often receive faster offers.
7. Career Progression
FIFO cleaning jobs open the door to multiple career paths. Many supervisors, logistics coordinators, and safety officers began as cleaners or utilities.
Possible Pathways:
- Cleaner → Utility Worker → Team Leader → Camp Supervisor
- Cleaner → Storeperson → Logistics Coordinator
- Cleaner → Health and Safety Representative → WHS Officer
- Cleaner → Kitchenhand → Cook or Catering Manager
Once you gain site experience, you can take extra courses such as:
- Working at Heights (RIIWHS204E)
- Confined Space Entry (RIIWHS202E)
- Emergency Response and Fire Safety Training
- G2 Risk Management
These tickets help you move into higher-paying or more specialised roles.
8. The Reality of FIFO Cleaning Work
The Upsides
- Strong pay for entry-level work
- Flights, meals, and accommodation covered
- Clear career pathway into larger industries
- Time off between swings for family or travel
The Challenges
- Physically demanding work in heat and dust
- Repetition and isolation can be mentally tough
- Strict drug and alcohol policies
- Early starts and long hours
Success depends on adaptability and attitude. If you are dependable and take pride in your work, you will be valued by supervisors and quickly noticed for promotion.
9. Tips for New Starters
- Pack light but bring quality work boots and PPE.
- Keep your room tidy and respect camp rules.
- Stay hydrated, especially in the Pilbara and Bowen Basin regions.
- Avoid gossip or workplace drama — professionalism is key.
- Take advantage of training opportunities offered on site.
- Build a network with other departments; it helps you find your next opportunity.
10. Ready to Apply? Here’s What to Do Next
- Get your White Card and Standard 11 Mining Induction.
- Prepare your resume and police check.
- Apply directly through Sodexo, Compass Group, or Morris Corp websites.
- Be prepared for a pre-employment medical and a two-week induction period.
- Once approved, you could be flying to your first site within weeks.
Conclusion: A Solid Start to a FIFO Career
Becoming a FIFO cleaner is not just about mops and buckets. It is a respected gateway into one of Australia’s highest-paying industries. You will learn discipline, teamwork, and the routines that keep massive operations running safely.
If you stay reliable, professional, and safety-focused, you can climb quickly into more advanced roles. Every site manager and safety supervisor remembers the workers who made life easier for everyone else — the ones who showed up, did the job right, and kept standards high.
That is where your FIFO story begins.
Read more at
Next Steps:
- FIFO Utility Worker Jobs: The All-Rounder Role Explained
- Standard 11 Mining Induction Guide (2025)
- White Card Course for FIFO Workers
- Safety Standards on FIFO Sites
