Experience: Started with zero experience landed a mining job within a few months.
1. Sort Your Paperwork First
Before you even think about applying, get these locked in:
- ✅ Visa: Kiwis get one on arrival no dramas. Others will need a working holiday visa or sponsorship. No visa = no chance.
- ✅ TFN (Tax File Number)
- ✅ Australian Bank Account & Super Account
- ✅ Local Address & Phone Number (ideally in Perth, since most FIFO jobs fly from there)
Employers want to see you’re already here and ready to go.
2. Start Applying Everywhere
Hit up our job board for any current positions here sites.
Don’t overthink the “experience required” lines apply anyway.
💡 Tip: Use ChatGPT to help write your CV. Tailor it:
- Utility Jobs: Highlight any hospitality, housekeeping, or bar work.
- Trade/Drilling Jobs: Push labouring, tools, or outdoor experience.
It might take 2–3 months, so get casual work to tide you over while applying.
3. Nail the Interview
When you get the call:
- Be early, look sharp, bring printed resumes.
- Be honest: “No experience yet, but I’m keen and I work hard.”
- Don’t fake experience they’ll know.
Utilities especially have high turnover, so if you show reliability, you’re gold.
4. Be Ready for the Reality
It’s not all stacks of cash and trips to Bali. Expect:
- 12-hour shifts, weeks straight.
- Heat, flies, and isolation.
- People burning out fast.
Keep your head right go in with a goal. Know why you’re doing it.
5. Take Any Job to Get Your Foot In
Don’t hold out for glamour roles. Scrub pots, clean rooms, pour beers just get in.
Once you’re in the system, network:
- Chat with miners at the site bar.
- Let HR/recruiters know you’re keen for onsite work.
- Keep your attitude solid no negativity.
6. Upskill During R&R
If you want to move up:
- Get Working at Heights, Confined Space, Rigging, Dogging, Scaffolding, etc.
- Pay for them yourself shows initiative.
- These cost $1–2K, but they pay off fast.
You’ll stand out when you’re already ticketed and ready.
7. Recruiters & Companies to Know
For Utility / Camp Work:
- ESS (Compass Group)
- Sodexo
For Blue-Collar / Shutdowns:
- Hayes Recruitment
- Programmed
- Programmed Marine (for offshore/oil & gas)
Reach out directly, keep them on your side, and stay ready to mobilize.
If a job opens up drop everything and go.
8. Final Advice
- Don’t chase the dream chase the start.
- Show up early, do the dirty jobs, earn your rep.
- Once you’re in, doors open fast onsite, offshore, or trades.