Is there a minimum age before children can work?
Whilst there is no minimum starting age in NSW, make sure your child is ready and committed to taking up paid work.
Before your child starts you should consider the preparedness of your child to commit to work and be satisified that the type of work he or she is doing is suitable for their age.
In NSW there is no legal minimum age for starting work. However, if your child wishes to leave school before age fifteen, you must seek permission from the Department of Education and Training. Laws governing school leaving and minimum age vary state to state.
When students were asked what advice they would offer to younger students thinking about part-time work, some said:
"Don't work until you have to; in Years 7 and 8 you are not ready to juggle school and work."
"Make sure the time is right for you."
"Make sure that you are ready to have a job, that you don't have too many commitments."
"Only go for a job if you are willing to commit to it. If you know you are out most nights or are out socialising, work is not for you."
If your child is asked to operate dangerous machinery or equipment, raise it with the employer. If you don't receive a response you are happy with, or are unsure about whether there are any rules that apply to young workers, you can get confidential advice by ringing the Office of Industrial Relations on 131 628.
For more assistance on matters to do with Occupational Health and Safety, look at the section on this site (provide link here)