In NSW there is no legal minimum age for starting work. However, if you wish 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 by state.
Independent research conducted for the New South Wales Teachers Federation (Think: Insight & Advice, "You're Gold if You're Fifteen Years Old," 2007) found out many things about how students balance school and work and led to the creation of this website. 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."
For a copy of "You're Gold if You're Fifteen Years Old" click here.
If you are asked to operate dangerous machinery or , raise it with your employer. If you don't receive a response you are happy with, or are unsure about whether there are 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.