When can I work?

Department of CommerceWageline

• Benefits of Work• Children in Employment Laws• Starting Work• Workplace Responsibilities• Problems with wages• Labour Relations in WA

What we will cover

• Social• Money / Financial• Skill gaining• Educational• Gives you a purpose• Self esteem / confidence

Benefits of Work

Children in Employment Laws

When can I start work?• Age restrictions apply• Set hours and industries apply

You can work at any age:• in a family business,• as part of a work experience program through your

school, or• as part of a dramatic or musical performance, in

entertainment or making an advertisement.

Children in Employment Laws

Under 10• Cannot be legally employed

Between 10 and 13• Deliver newspapers, pamphlets and advertising

material• 6am – 7pm not during school hours• Must be accompanied by parent or guardian

Children in Employment Laws

Between 13 and 15 you can work:• Delivering newspapers/pamphlets/catalogues• Restaurant / fast food• Shop / retail outlet • Trolley collector

Conditions:• Written permission from parents / guardian• Between 6am – 10pm • Not during school hours

Children in Employment Laws

15 and 1 day• No restrictions on where you can work

• Cannot work during school hours

School Leaving Age• End of the year that you turn 17

• Can leave earlier

• Must have a permission from the Department of Education

• Get a Tax File Number

• Trial Work- How long is the trial for?- Will I get paid?- Is there a job vacancy?

• Training at work should be paid for

• Find out your minimum rate• Call Wageline to find your award or agreement• Keep records of the hours you work

Starting Work

• Your boss can not take money from your pay unless you agree

Unauthorised Deductions

Workplace Responsibilities

Employee obligations

• Perform duties within your job description

• Duty of care

• Account for money

• Confidentiality

• Steps to take– Get accurate information– Talk to your boss– Wageline

• 6 year statute of limitations• Keep your own records

Problems with Wages

www.commerce.wa.gov.au/wageline

1300 655 266