In the resource-rich economy of Australia, FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) roles have become a cornerstone of the country’s workforce—particularly in the mining, oil, and gas sectors. While roles like drillers and electricians often dominate headlines due to their high salaries, FIFO utility workers play a critical, if unsung, role in the operational success of remote sites. But just how much do these workers earn per hour—especially in Victoria, a state with growing interest in regional mining and energy projects?
With Plumber Warragul, we’ll unpack the average hourly rates, key factors influencing pay, and what life on a FIFO utility job actually looks like. We’ll also explore how wages in Victoria, Australia compare to other states, and whether this career path is worth considering in 2025.
📍 Who Are FIFO Utility Workers?
FIFO utility workers are the backbone of remote mining camps and energy sites. These workers often cover a wide scope of tasks including:
- Camp cleaning and housekeeping
- Laundry services
- Kitchen hand and basic food prep
- Waste management
- General maintenance
- Supporting tradespeople on site
While the title “utility worker” may sound generic, the role is multifaceted and physically demanding. Unlike trades-based FIFO roles (e.g. boilermakers or electricians), utility workers often require less formal training, making the role an accessible entry point into the lucrative FIFO lifestyle.
💰 How Much Do FIFO Utility Workers Earn Per Hour?
So, how much do FIFO utility workers earn per hour in Victoria?
As of mid-2025, FIFO utility workers in Victoria typically earn between $30 and $45 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. That translates to approximately $2,300 to $3,500 per fortnight, assuming a standard 12-hour shift roster over a 14-day swing.
🧾 Breakdown of Factors Affecting Pay:
- Experience Level:
Entry-level utility workers may start on $30/hour, while those with 2–3 years of experience or multiple site competencies may command up to $45/hour. - Roster Type:
Common rosters include 2:1, 2:2, and 3:1. More demanding rosters (like 3 weeks on, 1 week off) can attract a slightly higher rate due to fatigue and time away from home. - Location Allowances:
Sites in more remote or climatically harsh parts of Victoria (such as northwest regional zones) often include a site allowance or uplift, boosting hourly rates. - Employer Type:
Larger camp management firms like Sodexo, Compass Group, and ISS offer different pay scales. Independent contractors may negotiate better rates but often forgo job security and benefits. - Union Coverage:
Some roles fall under enterprise bargaining agreements (EBAs), which secure higher minimum hourly rates, overtime loading, and allowances under Fair Work Australia standards.
🔍 Victoria’s FIFO Landscape in 2025
Though Western Australia dominates the national FIFO conversation, Victoria is quietly developing a stronger presence in the resources and renewable energy sectors. Areas such as Latrobe Valley and parts of Gippsland are home to energy production facilities, while quarry and sand mining operations are scattered throughout northern Victoria.
This growth means an increasing demand for FIFO services—including camp utility staff. While some roles fly out of Melbourne Airport to intrastate or interstate sites, there is a rising number of intra-Victorian FIFO roles where workers are bussed to remote locations.
Notable Regional Employers:
- Snowy Hydro Projects (cross-border with NSW)
- EnergyAustralia’s Yallourn Site
- Quarry sites in Wodonga, Mildura, and Swan Hill
- Wind farm construction crews in Western Victoria
This regional diversification makes Victoria an increasingly appealing base for utility workers seeking FIFO careers without needing to relocate to Perth or Darwin.
🏕️ The Realities of FIFO Utility Work
Earning $40/hour sounds attractive, but the lifestyle of a FIFO utility worker isn’t for everyone. You’ll often work 12-hour shifts, with half of that time spent on your feet doing cleaning, lifting, and servicing roles.
Pros:
- Above-average hourly pay
- Paid travel, meals, and accommodation
- Fast entry into the resources sector
- Opportunity to upskill into trade roles
Cons:
- Long hours with physical labor
- Time away from family and routine
- Isolated living conditions
- Mental health pressures (high burnout risk)
For those living in metro Victoria, the FIFO model offers a high-paying alternative to underwhelming urban hospitality or retail work—especially in a post-COVID economic landscape where regional employment has surged.
📈 Career Growth & Training
Starting as a utility worker can be a stepping stone to bigger things. Many workers use the role to:
- Transition into trade apprenticeships (electrical, plumbing, mechanical)
- Gain certifications in HSE (Health, Safety, Environment)
- Advance into camp manager or logistics supervisor roles
- Add high-demand qualifications like White Card, First Aid, or Mining Induction (RIISS00034)
Employers in Victoria often encourage internal training, and many offer certificate II or III level training in cleaning, hospitality, or mining operations. Visit Plumber Warragul for more.
🧮 Cost of Living vs FIFO Utility Pay
Considering that utility workers are provided accommodation, food, and travel—the net take-home is substantial, even after taxes. In Victoria, where the average minimum wage hovers around $23/hour, a $40/hour FIFO rate represents a 75% pay uplift.
For those juggling rent or mortgage payments in Melbourne, Geelong, or Ballarat, doing 2 weeks on and 2 weeks off can help fast-track savings, debt clearance, or home deposits.
📌 Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
How much do FIFO utility workers earn per hour in Victoria? Enough to make it an appealing entry into the resource industry. With an average hourly rate of $30–$45/hour, subsidized living costs, and pathways for advancement, FIFO utility work is becoming an increasingly popular option for Victorians seeking meaningful, well-compensated work in 2025.
However, it’s essential to weigh the personal sacrifices against the financial gain. Long hours, isolation, and fatigue are part of the package. But for many, especially those in regional areas of Victoria, Australia, it’s a strategic move that pays off—literally.
🔎 Key Takeaways:
- FIFO utility workers in Victoria earn $30–$45 per hour
- Pay varies based on experience, site conditions, and employer
- Victoria’s regional resource sector is growing, offering new opportunities
- Utility work is a great entry into higher-paying trades and mining jobs
- Lifestyle and mental health considerations are crucial for long-term success