TIPS TO GET STARTED WITH FIFO LIFE

If you have a family

FIFO working arrangements have their challenges and it will take a little while for you and your family to adjust to this new lifestyle. Below are some tips to help you and your family decide if FIFO is the right choice for you.

When considering a FIFO working arrangement

• Have a think about what it could mean for you and your home/family life before you apply for a job.
• If you know someone already working FIFO have a chat with them to hear about their experiences so that you have an idea of what to expect.

Before you start

• When negotiating your employment contract, consider the roster that will best suit your lifestyle.
• Get all of the details about your employment contract and the conditions before you start.
• Have a plan in place for emergency situations for your family at home. For example keep a list of contact numbers, such as your family doctor, local hospital and your company’s airline and share this with your family.
• Have a plan in place with your family if you need to take emergency leave for a sick child or family member, you might be working at an isolated site that you cannot get home from immediately.

Getting into the swing of it

• Put up lots of photos of things that make you happy. This could be a partner, family, friends, favourite holiday spots, pets, whatever you like. Just remember if you are sharing accommodation you may need to put these away when you go home.
• It may take two to three swings to adjust to the longer working hours and the night shifts so make sure you get plenty of sleep and eat well.
• Make a real effort to exercise and maintain a healthy diet, this will help with mood and motivation.
• Make time to relax by reading, artwork, exercising, socialising with your work colleagues/friends so you feel less isolated.
• Have a chat with your work mates, family members or friends about any concerns or difficulties you may be having. There is no shame in talking about how you are feeling.
• If you start to feel isolated or depressed and your employer has an Employee Assistance Program, you can use this to seek professional help. You might prefer to have a chat with a mate, your Manager, Human Resources, your partner or whoever you feel most comfortable with. Some people feel asking for help is a weakness but it is actually a strength.
• Don’t be too hard on yourself. Allow time to adjust to your new FIFO lifestyle. Working FIFO is different to a regular local job. It’s a lifestyle change as well.