Parenting
When Kids Go To Work: Y
What Every Parent Needs to Know
our child’s first job is an important milestone in the life of your family and also your child. Often, children cannot wait to get out the door to start earning a bit of money and make their mark in the world. However, for parents, it can all be a little daunting with the many rules and restrictions around age and working hours for young children and school children. This area of law is governed by state legislation which means the rules and regulations may differ from state to state. This article is intended to provide a summary of the relevant law in Queensland.
Is there a certain age that a child can
start working?
In Queensland, the rule of thumb is that a child must be at least 13 years before they can obtain employment . However, like most things, there are exceptions to the rule. For example, a child is able to carry out supervised delivery work such as delivering newspapers, advertising material or similar items from the age of 11. For any parents of potential ‘child stars’ you might be surprised to know that there is no minimum age for children to work in the entertainment industry. Even young children who are not yet at school (as well as babies) can work in this industry. There are, however, specific provisions that apply to ensure the protection of children.
What type of work can children do? The meaning of “work” has a broad definition. Fortunately for parents, this work does not extend to domestic chores! It also does not include work experience, vocational placements, apprenticeships, traineeships , or work performed in a family business that is totally owned by a close adult relative of the child .
Do parents have to do anything? Parents must provide their consent before a child is able to start working. They can do so by completing a ‘Parent’s Consent Form’, which can be found on the Department of Justice’s website (www.justice.qld.gov.au). A new form must be completed and provided to the employer if the child’s school hours change, within 14 days of the change. Parents should be aware that it is illegal for an employer to employ a child without a signed parent’s consent form or a special circumstances certificate from the Department of Justice and Attorney-General. It is also illegal for a parent to employ or permit their child to work during school hours unless they have a reasonable excuse.
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Your Local Families Magazine - December/January 2016