Can FIFO workers claim tax deductions on investment property?

Yes, FIFO workers can claim standard investment property tax deductions including mortgage interest, property management fees, maintenance, repairs, council rates, insurance, and depreciation. However, you cannot claim travel expenses between your work site and investment property as these are not work-related. Consult a tax accountant for advice specific to your FIFO arrangement.

Is Gold Coast a good investment for FIFO workers?

Gold Coast offers strong appeal for FIFO workers as a lifestyle investment and potential future home. Benefits include: strong rental yields, capital growth potential, desirable lifestyle location for post-FIFO transition, quality property management infrastructure, and proximity to Queensland mining operations. It's also a sea-change destination for workers planning to leave FIFO lifestyle.

Do FIFO workers need to visit Gold Coast to buy property?

No, FIFO workers can purchase Gold Coast property entirely remotely using virtual inspections, electronic contracts, and remote settlement. This is ideal for FIFO schedules. We specialize in helping interstate FIFO workers purchase during their roster breaks or completely remotely between swings.

How do FIFO workers manage Gold Coast property remotely?

Professional property management is essential for FIFO workers. Property managers handle tenant sourcing, rent collection, maintenance, inspections, and compliance. Costs typically 7-10% of rent. Many FIFO workers find property management easier than managing property interstate while on roster.

Can FIFO workers get home loans for Gold Coast property?

Yes, FIFO workers with stable employment can obtain home loans. Lenders assess FIFO income as regular employment if you have continuous roster history (typically 6-12 months minimum). Base salary is usually fully counted, while allowances may be discounted. Work with mortgage brokers experienced with FIFO lending.

What's the best property type for FIFO investment?

Depends on your strategy: Investment for rental income - modern apartments or townhouses (lower maintenance, good yields). Future lifestyle home - houses in beachside suburbs (capital growth, lifestyle appeal). Holiday home with rental - dual-key apartments or holiday-friendly properties. Consider maintenance requirements given your limited ability to oversee property on roster.

Should FIFO workers buy investment property or future home?

Consider your FIFO timeline. If planning to leave FIFO within 2-5 years, buying your future home now locks in price and provides ready accommodation post-FIFO. If staying FIFO long-term (5-10+ years), investment property provides income and diversification. Many FIFO workers buy lifestyle investment that becomes their home when they transition out of FIFO work.

What tax benefits do FIFO workers get on investment property?

FIFO workers earning high taxable income benefit significantly from negative gearing. Tax deductions on investment property losses offset your FIFO income taxed at high marginal rates (37-45%). This makes investment property particularly tax-effective for high-earning FIFO workers. Consult tax accountant to maximize deductions.

Can FIFO workers claim travel to inspect Gold Coast property?

Generally no. Travel to inspect or manage personal investment property is not tax-deductible as it's not work-related travel. However, you can claim property management fees paid to professionals who conduct inspections on your behalf. This makes professional property management not just convenient but also more tax-effective than self-management.

Is off-market property good for FIFO buyers?

Yes, off-market properties are ideal for FIFO workers. Benefits include: no auction attendance required (impossible during roster), private negotiations around your schedule, virtual inspections available anytime, flexible settlement timelines to suit roster breaks, and no competition from local buyers at open homes you can't attend.

FIFO Workers Property Investment Guide 2025

Why Gold Coast for FIFO Workers?

The Gold Coast is exceptionally popular with FIFO workers for several compelling reasons:

Gold Coast Advantages for FIFO Investors

🏖️ Lifestyle Investment Appeal

Gold Coast represents the sea-change lifestyle many FIFO workers aspire to post-mining. 70km of beaches, year-round warm climate, outdoor lifestyle, and relaxed pace contrast perfectly with remote mining environments.

💰 Strong Investment Fundamentals

Solid capital growth history, strong rental yields (particularly apartments), diverse property stock from $400k to $5M+, and growing population (consistently top 5 fastest-growing regions in Australia).

✈️ Accessibility

Direct flights from Perth, Brisbane, Sydney. Gold Coast Airport makes visits during roster breaks convenient. Only 1 hour from Brisbane for alternative flights.

🔧 Professional Infrastructure

Mature property management industry experienced with interstate investors. Well-established tenant market with strong demand. Reliable trades and maintenance networks.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly

Many FIFO workers plan to relocate families post-mining. Gold Coast offers excellent schools, safe communities, family activities, and career opportunities for spouses.

💼 Economic Diversification

Unlike single-industry mining towns, Gold Coast economy is diversified (tourism, education, healthcare, technology, construction). This stability supports consistent rental demand and property values.

Investment Strategy: Investment Property vs Future Home

FIFO workers face a strategic decision: buy pure investment, or buy your future lifestyle home?

Investment Property Strategy

✓ Best For:

• Long-term FIFO workers (5-10+ years)
• Maximizing rental yield and tax deductions
• Building portfolio while working FIFO
• Uncertain about future location

Characteristics:

• Focus on yield (apartments, townhouses)
• Location: close to amenities, transport
• Low maintenance (body corporate managed)
• Proven rental history
• Maximize tax deductions

Tax Benefits:

• Full negative gearing available
• Deduct all expenses against FIFO income
• Depreciation deductions
• No CGT if becomes main residence later

Future Lifestyle Home Strategy

✓ Best For:

• FIFO workers planning exit within 2-5 years
• Families relocating to Gold Coast post-FIFO
• Securing dream location now
• Lifestyle priority over pure yield

Characteristics:

• Focus on lifestyle (beachside houses)
• Family-friendly suburbs, schools
• Space for future needs (kids, home office)
• Rent short-term until you move
• Capital growth priority

Lifestyle Benefits:

• Home ready when you finish FIFO
• Benefit from property growth while working
• Use during roster breaks if desired
• Main residence CGT exemption potential

Hybrid Strategy: Lifestyle Investment

Many FIFO workers choose a hybrid approach:

• Buy property in desirable lifestyle suburb (Tugun, Currumbin, Burleigh)
• Rent to quality tenants while working FIFO (generates income, tax deductions)
• Transition to personal residence when leaving FIFO (main residence exemption starts)
• Combines immediate investment benefits with future lifestyle goals

Popular Approach: Buy quality house in family-friendly beachside suburb. Rent it for 3-5 years while completing FIFO swings. Gives tenants notice 6-12 months before your planned FIFO exit. Move in as your primary residence. Best of both worlds - investment income now, lifestyle home later.

Can't Visit Australia? No Problem.

We provide comprehensive virtual property inspections via video call. Inspect properties from anywhere in the world at a time convenient for your timezone.

Live video walkthroughs of every room, outdoor area, and local amenities
Professional building & pest inspection reports delivered digitally
Ask questions in real-time during virtual tours
Electronic settlement - complete entire purchase remotely

Request Virtual Inspection Learn More

Financing for FIFO Workers

FIFO workers with stable employment can generally secure home loans, though some specific considerations apply.

FIFO Income Assessment by Lenders

What Lenders Look For:

• Employment Stability: Typically want 6-12 months continuous FIFO employment minimum
• Roster Consistency: Regular roster pattern (e.g., 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off)
• Base Salary: Usually counted at 100%
• Allowances: May be discounted by 20-30% (site allowance, travel allowance, etc.)
• Overtime: Typically only counted if consistently received over 12+ months
• Contractor vs Employee: Employees typically easier to assess than contractors

Required Documentation:

• Last 2 years tax returns
• Last 3-6 months payslips
• Employment contract or roster confirmation
• Bank statements showing income deposits
• Letter from employer confirming ongoing employment

LVR and Deposit Requirements

As Australian residents working for Australian companies, FIFO workers typically access standard lending terms:

• Maximum LVR: 80-90% (up to 95% with LMI)
• Minimum Deposit: 5-20% depending on LVR
• Interest Rates: Standard resident rates (no premium for FIFO work)
• Investment Property: May be slightly lower LVR (80% typical max)

Tips for FIFO Mortgage Applications

• Use Experienced Broker: Find broker familiar with FIFO lending and mining industry
• Highlight Stability: Emphasize consistent employment history, long-term contracts
• Conservative Serviceability: Demonstrate you can service loan even with allowance reductions
• Pre-Approval: Get pre-approved before property search (valid 3-6 months)
• Timing: Apply during roster breaks when you can respond quickly to requests

Tax Deductions for FIFO Property Investors

FIFO workers earning high taxable income benefit significantly from investment property tax deductions.

Investment Property Tax Deductions

✓ Deductible Expenses:

• Mortgage Interest: Usually largest deduction (e.g., $30,000+ annually on $500k loan)
• Property Management: 7-10% of rent plus letting fees
• Council Rates: $2,000-$4,000 annually
• Body Corporate Fees: $4,000-$12,000 (apartments/townhouses)
• Insurance: Building and landlord insurance premiums
• Maintenance & Repairs: Fixing existing issues (painting, repairs, etc.)
• Depreciation: Building depreciation + fixtures/fittings (requires depreciation schedule)
• Accounting Fees: Tax return preparation related to rental property
• Legal Fees: Ongoing property management legal costs

✗ NOT Deductible:

• Travel to Property: Flights/accommodation to inspect personal investment property
• Capital Improvements: Renovations that increase property value (depreciated over time instead)
• Personal Use: Any period you use property yourself (portion of expenses)
• Initial Purchase Costs: Stamp duty, conveyancing added to cost base for CGT

Negative Gearing Benefits for High-Income FIFO Workers

Example: FIFO Worker on $150,000 Income

Scenario: $600,000 Gold Coast apartment, $500k loan at 6.5%

Annual Rental Income: $28,600 ($550/week)

Annual Expenses:

• Loan interest (6.5%): $32,500
• Property management (8%): $2,300
• Body corporate: $6,000
• Council rates: $2,500
• Insurance: $1,500
• Maintenance: $2,000
• Depreciation: $8,000
• Total: $54,800

Net Loss (Negative Gearing): -$26,200

Tax Benefit at 45% Rate: $11,790 refund

Actual Out-of-Pocket Cost: $14,410 annually ($277/week)

Note: Simplified example. Actual figures depend on specific circumstances. Consult tax accountant for personalized advice.

FIFO-Specific Tax Considerations

Cannot Claim FIFO Travel Against Property: Your flights to/from mine site are either provided by employer or claimed as work-related deduction. You cannot claim additional travel to inspect your Gold Coast investment property as this is private/investment activity, not work-related. This makes professional property management essential (and tax-deductible).

Property Management for FIFO Workers

Professional property management is non-negotiable for FIFO workers. You cannot effectively manage tenants and maintenance while on 2-week swings.

Why Property Management is Essential

• Roster Constraints: Impossible to attend inspections, show property, or handle emergencies during swings
• Tenant Communication: Requires prompt responses (24-48 hours) - difficult during roster
• Maintenance Coordination: Plumbers, electricians need scheduling - can't wait 2 weeks
• Legal Compliance: QLD tenancy laws require specific procedures, timelines
• Tax Deductible: Management fees fully deductible, making it cost-effective

For comprehensive property management guidance, see our Property Management for Overseas Owners Guide.

Remote Buying Process for FIFO Workers

Off-market properties and virtual inspections perfectly suit FIFO schedules.

Why Off-Market is Ideal for FIFO Buyers

• No Auction Attendance: Can't attend weekend auctions during 2-week swings
• Flexible Timing: Private negotiations work around your roster
• Virtual Inspections: Comprehensive video tours during your roster breaks
• No Competition: Not competing with local buyers who can inspect in person
• Settlement Flexibility: Longer settlement periods accommodate your schedule

For detailed remote buying process, see our Virtual Inspections Guide.

Best Gold Coast Locations for FIFO Investors

For Investment Yield:

• Southport: High rental demand, affordable apartments, close to hospital/university
• Surfers Paradise: Holiday/corporate rental potential, strong yields
• Broadbeach: Modern apartments, business/tourist demand

For Future Lifestyle Home:

• Tugun: Family-friendly, beautiful beaches, bypass reduces traffic
• Currumbin: Relaxed surf village, excellent schools, nature
• Burleigh Heads: Highly desirable, village atmosphere, cafes, parks
• Palm Beach: Quiet residential, good schools, safe for families

For Hybrid (Investment + Future Home):

• Coolangatta: Strong rental demand + lifestyle appeal
• Mermaid Beach: Good yields + desirable for owner-occupation
• Bilinga: Near airport, affordable houses, growing area

⚠️ Important Disclaimers

General Information Only: This guide provides general information for FIFO workers. Not financial, tax, or investment advice.

Tax Advice Essential: FIFO arrangements vary significantly (employer-provided, LAFHA, different allowances). Your specific tax treatment depends on your employment structure. Consult registered tax agent experienced with FIFO taxation for advice specific to your circumstances.

No Investment Recommendations: Information about locations and strategies is general guidance only, not recommendations to purchase specific properties or locations.

FIFO Workers Property Investment Guide: Investing in Gold Coast from Interstate

Quick Answer for FIFO Workers

Complete FIFO Investment Guide

Investment Strategy:

Practical Considerations:

Why Gold Coast for FIFO Workers?

Gold Coast Advantages for FIFO Investors

🏖️ Lifestyle Investment Appeal

💰 Strong Investment Fundamentals

✈️ Accessibility

🔧 Professional Infrastructure

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly

💼 Economic Diversification

Investment Strategy: Investment Property vs Future Home

Investment Property Strategy

✓ Best For:

Characteristics:

Tax Benefits:

Future Lifestyle Home Strategy

✓ Best For:

Characteristics:

Lifestyle Benefits:

Hybrid Strategy: Lifestyle Investment

Can't Visit Australia? No Problem.

Financing for FIFO Workers

FIFO Income Assessment by Lenders

What Lenders Look For:

Required Documentation:

LVR and Deposit Requirements

Tips for FIFO Mortgage Applications

Tax Deductions for FIFO Property Investors

Investment Property Tax Deductions

✓ Deductible Expenses:

✗ NOT Deductible:

Negative Gearing Benefits for High-Income FIFO Workers

Example: FIFO Worker on $150,000 Income

FIFO-Specific Tax Considerations

Property Management for FIFO Workers

Why Property Management is Essential

Remote Buying Process for FIFO Workers

Why Off-Market is Ideal for FIFO Buyers

Best Gold Coast Locations for FIFO Investors

For Investment Yield:

For Future Lifestyle Home:

For Hybrid (Investment + Future Home):

⚠️ Important Disclaimers

Related Investment Guides

International Property Buyers Guide

Virtual Inspections Guide

Property Management Guide

Off-Market Advantages

Register as an International Buyer

Thank You!