You’re Not Bad With Money - Navigating Finances in FIFO

You’re Not Bad With Money - Navigating Finances in FIFO

FIFO workers often earn good money on paper — but that doesn’t always mean it feels easy. In this episode of She Mines, I'm having an honest conversation about finances, shame, and building money confidence in a FIFO lifestyle. I’m joined by Lacey Filipich from Money School, a former chemical engineer who worked in mining and is now a financial educator. Together, we unpack why so many FIFO workers feel overwhelmed by money, the impact of long swings and lifestyle creep, and how to create simple, practical systems that actually work in a mining context. This isn’t about budgeting perfectly or getting rich quickly. It’s about removing shame, understanding your finances, and taking small, realistic steps toward feeling more in control. If finances are feeling more than just stressful, please know there is free and confidential support available. You can contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or visit https://ndh.org.au to speak with a financial counsellor. Or if you want Lacey's Money School risk management guide, it's on the Resources page on https://www.moneyschool.net.au/resources

How To Support A Mate On Site

On site, we’re trained to fix problems. Breakdowns. Delays. Production targets. But what happens when the problem isn’t mechanical — it’s mental? In this episode, I talk about how to actually support a mate who might be struggling. Not as a counsellor. Not with perfect words. Just as someone who notices and cares enough to check in. I unpack the signs someone might not be okay, what to say (and what not to say), and when to escalate beyond a toolbox chat. Because in FIFO and mining life, silence is common — and a simple conversation can make a real difference. Looking after your mate isn’t weakness. It’s leadership.

Turning Silence Blue: The Blue Tree Project

In this episode of She Mines, I’m joined by Kendall, the founder of the Blue Tree Project — a movement that has become a powerful symbol for mental health awareness across Australia and the world. Kendall shares her deeply personal journey with mental health, the story behind how the Blue Tree Project began, and the impact it has had on individuals and communities. What started from a place of pain has grown into something that’s helping people feel seen, start conversations, and remind others that they’re not alone. We also talk about how these conversations translate into high-pressure industries like mining — where long hours, isolation, and a culture of resilience can often make it harder to speak up. This episode is a reminder of the importance of connection, checking in, and creating spaces where people feel safe to be honest. If you’ve ever struggled, know someone who has, or want to better support a mate — this conversation is for you. If this episode resonates, share it with someone who might need it. To learn more about the Blue Tree Project, get involved, or reach out for support, you can find them on: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluetreeproject/ Website - https://bluetreeproject.com.au/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluetreeproject/posts/?feedView=all

What Do I Pack For My First FIFO Swing?

Starting your first FIFO swing can be exciting — but packing for it can feel overwhelming. What do you actually need to bring? What will site provide? And what do experienced FIFO workers wish they had packed the first time? In this episode of She Mines, I break down everything you need to know before heading out on your first FIFO swing. From travel essentials and PPE to camp life comforts, food containers, health items and the small things that make a big difference on site, this episode is designed to help new starters feel more prepared and confident. This episode was also built with help from the She Mines community. After putting the call out on social media, FIFO workers from across the industry shared their must-have items, lessons learned and tips for surviving that first swing. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed. And most importantly — don’t stress if you forget something. Everyone does. Your first swing is an opportunity to learn, settle into FIFO life and figure out what works best for you.

Finding Purpose Through Helping Others

In this episode of She Mines, I am joined by Laura, a crisis supporter and facilitator with Lifeline, to explore the human stories behind mental health support. Laura shares her journey into working with Lifeline, what it’s really like supporting people through crisis, and the importance of breaking down stigma around mental health — especially in high-pressure industries like mining. This conversation highlights the courage it takes to speak up, ask for help, and support others, even when it feels uncomfortable. It’s an honest and compassionate discussion about vulnerability, strength, and the power of simply starting the conversation. If this episode brings anything up for you, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.