Lexi Webster
As a teenager in Australia, finding your first job can be challenging but rewarding. The minimum age for employment in Australia is typically 14 years old, with some exceptions depending on the state or territory. There are several ways to find job opportunities, including seeking advice from a school careers advisor, using online job platforms, and visiting local businesses directly. When applying for jobs, it is beneficial to tailor your resume and cover letter to each position and be proactive in following up with potential employers. Online resources and local libraries can provide valuable support in resume writing and interview preparation. It is also important to be aware of your rights as a young employee, with the Fair Work Ombudsman offering guidance on junior pay rates and working hours regulations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Minimum age for employment | 13-14 years old (varies by state) |
| Minimum wage for 14-year-olds | $8.02 per hour |
| Companies that hire young teens | McDonald's, Coles, Woolworths, Baker's Delight, Brumby's, Boost Juice, IGA, Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, JB Hi-Fi |
| Job search websites | Jora, SEEK, Indeed |
| Job search tips | Visit local businesses, talk to managers, drop off resumes, apply online |
| Resume tips | Contact information, objective for work, personal summary, education, skills, awards/achievements |
| Other tips | Check with school careers advisor, join a "job club", discuss with parents/guardians |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Job hunting tips: resume, interview, and job search advice
Resume
If you haven't worked before, you can use a template to write your first resume. Include your contact information, objective for work, personal summary, education, skills, and awards/achievements. You can also add details of volunteering or work experience, extracurricular interests, leadership positions/achievements, and references. If you are at school, sometimes local businesses will contact your careers advisor to let them know about opportunities. You can also go directly to the places you would like to work and ask to speak to the manager, or apply online.
Interview
In an interview, it's important to ask questions. This shows you are engaged and interested in the role. You can also do a mock interview with a parent or guardian to practice your interview skills.
Job search
There are many online platforms that can be used to search for jobs, including SEEK, Indeed, and Jora. You can also ask your careers advisor about opportunities, or go directly to the businesses to ask about work. Some well-known brands that regularly hire younger teens include McDonald's, Coles, Woolworths, Baker's Delight, Boost Juice, IGA, Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, and JB Hi-Fi.
Other tips
- Discuss your job search with your parents or guardians, who can provide guidance and support and ensure you are following employment laws and regulations for minors.
- Consider a job that fits in with school hours or school holidays.
- If you are at university, consider tutoring as it generally pays well.
- If you are tech-savvy, explore online job opportunities such as managing social media for local businesses.
Australian Dollars or Vietnamese Dong: Money in Vietnam
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Job ideas: roles and companies that hire teens
The minimum age for paid work in Australia is 14 years old, with some exceptions depending on the type of work. As a junior employee, which is any employee under 21, junior pay rates apply. As of July 2024, the junior minimum wage for a 14-year-old is $8.02 per hour, which is 33.3% of the adult minimum wage. This increases each year with age and experience.
Some well-known brands that hire teens include:
- McDonald's – Hires from 14 years old (some stores from 13 with parental permission)
- Coles and Woolworths – Hire casual staff from age 14 in some locations
- Baker's Delight and Brumby's – Often hire young teens for after-school and weekend shifts
- Boost Juice – Great for a first hospitality role
- IGA – Independently owned stores may vary, but many hire from 14
- Priceline and Chemist Warehouse – Good for teens interested in retail or pharmacy careers
- JB Hi-Fi – Some stores hire young staff for weekend shifts
Some other job ideas for teens include:
- Modelling/acting/extras work – Opportunities within the film and TV industry are typically available to individuals of all age groups, including young teenagers who can earn decent incomes.
- Photographer – Start by offering to take photos for family and friends' special occasions or events, and explore selling snapshots online.
- Tutoring – If you have good grades, tutoring can be a well-paid option.
- Local cafes and restaurants – Smaller businesses may be more open to hiring teens.
- Retail – Kmart, Seed Heritage, and Valleygirl are some stores that hire teens.
- Community Services & Development – Join a team supporting children and teens with disabilities, or supporting Aboriginal infants and teens who are unable to live with their families.
Kilometre Rate: How Much Are Australians Compensated?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$114.96 $121
Rights and pay: minimum wage, working hours, and employment laws
When it comes to finding a job as a teenager in Australia, it's important to be aware of your rights and the applicable laws. The minimum wage, working hours, and employment laws are all crucial aspects that you should understand before starting your job search.
Firstly, let's talk about the minimum wage for teenagers in Australia. The minimum wage for junior employees in Australia is based on a percentage of the National Minimum Wage. If a junior employee is not covered by an award or agreement, they are entitled to receive a percentage of the National Minimum Wage. The percentage can vary depending on the employee's age. For example, a 17-year-old employee like Carly, who works in a shop, would be entitled to 60% of the adult pay rate. Once she turns 18, her entitlement increases to 70% of the adult pay rate. It's worth noting that there are specific awards, such as the Restaurant Award, that entitle juniors to be paid special rates for selling and serving alcohol, regardless of their age. These rates are typically aligned with the adult pay rate for their classification.
In addition to minimum wage rates, it's crucial to be aware of the minimum working age requirements in Australia. The minimum age for entering the workforce differs depending on the state or territory you reside in. For instance, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and New South Wales (NSW) have separate offices to contact for information on their minimum working age requirements. It's always a good idea to check with your specific state or territory to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for employment.
Working hours for teenagers in Australia are also regulated. Generally, if you want to work during school hours, you need to be of the minimum school-leaving age or have completed the minimum number of years of schooling. Each state and territory in Australia sets its own rules about when students can legally leave school. This information can usually be found through the relevant government departments or websites.
Lastly, it's important to be aware of your employment rights and entitlements. While finding a job as a teenager in Australia can be challenging, you should still ensure that you are being treated fairly and receiving the correct pay and conditions for your work. Services like the Fair Work Ombudsman provide valuable resources and support for young workers, including information on minimum wages, awards, and agreements. They also offer a Pay and Conditions Tool to help calculate minimum junior pay rates under different awards. Remember to stand up for your rights and seek assistance if you have any concerns about your employment.
Australian National ID Numbers: What's the Story?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
In-person support: job clubs, careers advisors, and parental help
In-person support can be a great way to help you find a job as a teenager in Australia. Local libraries often offer "job clubs", where you can get your resume reviewed, be coached by youth workers, and even do practice interviews. Getting support from specialists in youth employment can be very beneficial. Youth employment specialists can help connect young people with employment, training, and education opportunities. They can also provide tailored support, such as helping you build skills and confidence to find meaningful work in your local area.
Another option for in-person support is to seek help from a careers advisor. Careers advisors can provide you with personalized advice and guidance on your career path. They can help you explore different career options, identify your strengths and interests, and develop job search strategies. Some careers advisors may also have connections with potential employers or know about job openings that may not be widely advertised.
Additionally, don't underestimate the value of parental help when looking for a job as a teenager. Discussing your job options with your parents or guardians can be incredibly beneficial. They can provide guidance and ensure that you are following the relevant employment laws and regulations for minors. Your parents may also have valuable contacts or insights into specific industries or companies that can help you in your job search. They can also offer support and encouragement throughout the process.
Remember that there are also many federal and state government programs that support young people in finding and staying in the workforce. These programs are often run through community-based organizations and may be easily accessible to you. Seeking out these programs and connecting with other young people in similar situations can be a great way to gain in-person support and navigate the job market together.
Growing Jackfruit from Seeds in Australia's Climate
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$11.73 $17.99
Online jobs: social media, acting, and photography
If you're a teenager in Australia looking for an online job in social media, acting, or photography, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, each state and territory in Australia has different legislation regarding the minimum working age, so make sure you meet the requirements for your specific location.
Social Media Jobs
Tech-savvy teens can explore online job opportunities in social media management for local businesses. You can enhance your skills and build a foundation in this area by taking courses in social media and marketing. Social media platforms can also be used to showcase your portfolio and market your services, helping you build a network of potential clients.
Acting and Extras Work
The film and TV industry offers opportunities for individuals of all ages, including teenagers. These roles often involve working as extras in TV programs, commercials, and films, and can provide decent incomes, especially during school holidays. Keep in mind the restrictions on working hours during the school term.
Photography
If you have a passion for photography, you can start your own photography business. Offer your services to family and friends for special occasions or events, and build your portfolio from there. Online photography courses can also help you develop your skills and network with others in the field.
In addition to these specific fields, there are plenty of other remote jobs for teens in Australia that offer flexibility and require little to no experience. Remember to manage your time effectively, balance your work with your studies and social life, and take advantage of resources like job clubs at local libraries to get support and guidance in your job search. Additionally, consider removing any references to your university studies from your resume and cover letter to increase your chances of being hired.
KLM's Australian Adventure: Exploring New Destinations Down Under
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The minimum age for employment in Australia varies depending on the state or territory. Generally, the youngest age you can start working in Australia is 13, but this is usually limited to light, non-hazardous work and is subject to state laws and regulations. The minimum age for starting paid work in Australia is 14 years old.
There are several job options for teenagers in Australia, including:
- Fast-food or restaurant worker
- Movie theatre attendant
- Barista
- Retail assistant
- Babysitting
- Dog walking
- Photography
- Acting
- Social media management
- Modelling
- Acting as an extra in TV programs, commercials, and films
There are several ways to find job opportunities as a teenager in Australia:
- Ask family, friends, and neighbours if they know of any job openings.
- Look for cards in shop windows advertising vacancies in your local area.
- Check websites of large supermarkets and fast-food chains, as they often post vacancies online.
- Contact local businesses directly, such as cafes, grocery stores, or real estate agents, to enquire about entry-level jobs.
- Utilise online job platforms such as SEEK, Indeed, and Jora.
