8:6 Roster Salary Calculator – FIFO Pay Breakdown Australia

    The 8:6 roster — eight days on, six days off — is a popular FIFO schedule that delivers strong earnings with generous time at home. Used widely in mining, construction, and oil & gas across Western Australia and Queensland, the 8:6 is a favourite for workers who want better work-life balance than a 14:7 without sacrificing too much income.

    What Is a 8:6 Roster?

    An 8:6 roster means you work eight consecutive days on site followed by six days off. The 14-day cycle repeats 26 times per year, giving you approximately 209 working days. At 12-hour shifts, you'll spend more time at home than workers on 9:5 or 14:7 rosters while still earning a competitive annual salary. This roster is widely available across mining and construction operations and is considered one of the most sustainable long-term FIFO patterns.

    Industries That Use the 8:6 Roster

    Mining
    Construction
    Oil & Gas

    Common locations: WA, QLD

    Pros & Cons of the 8:6 Roster

    Advantages

    Good income
    Reasonable swing length
    Frequent home visits
    Sustainable

    Disadvantages

    Not quite even time
    Less off than 7:7

    Working Days Per Year on a 8:6 Roster

    209

    Working days/year

    156

    Days off/year

    26.1

    Cycles per year

    Example Salary Estimates – 8:6 Roster

    Based on 12-hour shifts and 209 working days per year. Figures are gross annual income before tax, super, and allowances.

    Hourly Rate Est. Annual Gross Income
    $50/hr $125,400
    $56/hr $140,448
    $62/hr $155,496
    $68/hr $170,544

    * Estimates only. Actual pay may vary based on penalty rates, allowances, overtime, and employer agreements. Use the calculator below for a detailed breakdown including Australian tax rates.

    Calculate Your Exact 8:6 Roster Pay

    Get a detailed breakdown of your take-home pay including Australian tax, superannuation, allowances, and penalty rates.

    Who Is the 8:6 Roster Best For?

    • Balanced income needs
    • Families
    • Sustainable careers