Jobs for Teenagers in the ACT
Looking for your first job in Canberra? The ACT has relatively simple employment rules for teenagers - no work permits required, but there are important hour limits for under-15s. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a teen in the Australian Capital Territory.
Quick Facts
- Minimum working age:
- No set minimum
- Work permit required:
- No
- Max hours during school term (under 15):
- 10 hours per week
- Governing legislation:
- Children and Young People Act 2008
What Age Can You Start Working in the ACT?
Unlike some states, the ACT doesn't set a specific minimum working age. Instead, the Children and Young People Act 2008 focuses on protecting young workers through hour limits and conditions rather than strict age cutoffs.
In practice, most employers in Canberra start hiring from around 14-15, which is similar to other parts of Australia. Here's what you need to know at different ages:
| Age | What You Can Do | Key Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Under 15 | Light work in retail, fast food, hospitality, family business | Max 10 hours/week during school term |
| 15-17 | Most jobs including retail, hospitality, customer service | Some restrictions on late nights and hazardous work |
| 18+ | All jobs including those involving alcohol | Full adult employment rights |
The key rule for under-15s in the ACT is the 10 hour weekly limit during school term. This is more specific than some other states and is strictly enforced to ensure work doesn't affect your schooling.
Working Hours Rules
The ACT has clear rules about working hours for young people, especially those under 15. These rules are designed to protect your education and wellbeing.
During School Term (Under 15)
| Restriction | Limit | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly maximum | 10 hours | Total across all jobs |
| School day work | Limited | Cannot work during school hours |
| Night work | Restricted | Work must not be excessively late |
During School Holidays
The 10 hour weekly limit applies during school term. During school holidays, the rules are more flexible and you can take on more hours. However, employers must still ensure the work is appropriate for your age and doesn't put your health or safety at risk.
Ages 15 and Over
Once you turn 15, the 10 hour weekly limit no longer applies. You can work more hours, though most employers will still be mindful of your schooling. There are still restrictions on hazardous work and serving alcohol until you turn 18.
Where to Find Jobs in the ACT
Canberra's job market is smaller than Sydney or Melbourne, but there are still plenty of opportunities for teenagers. Most jobs are concentrated in the major shopping centres like Canberra Centre, Belconnen Mall, and Woden Westfield.
Fast Food (Hire from 14)
- McDonald's - Multiple locations across Canberra, apply online
- KFC - Hires from 14, kitchen and counter roles
- Hungry Jack's - Good first job option, several Canberra stores
- Guzman y Gomez - Growing chain, often hires younger workers
Supermarkets (Hire from 14-15)
- Woolworths - Hires from 14 years 9 months, multiple stores in Canberra
- Coles - Generally hires from 15
- ALDI - Hires from 16, fewer locations but higher pay
- IGA and Supabarn - Local options, often hire younger teens
Other Canberra Options
- Dendy and Hoyts cinemas - Usually hire from 14-15
- Local cafes in Braddon, Kingston, and Manuka - Ask in person
- Swimming pools and sports centres - Great for summer work
- Questacon and museums - Occasional casual roles
- Market stalls - Fyshwick and Old Bus Depot Markets
Getting Started Checklist
Ready to find your first job in Canberra? Here's what you need to do:
- 1.Talk to your parents - Most employers want parental consent before hiring anyone under 18, even though no permit is required in the ACT
- 2.Apply for your TFN - Do this now, before you get a job offer. It takes a few days to arrive.
- 3.Create a basic resume - Even with no experience, you can highlight school achievements and skills
- 4.Know your hour limits - If you're under 15, remember the 10 hour weekly maximum during school term
- 5.Focus on shopping centres - Canberra's job opportunities are concentrated in major centres like Canberra Centre and Belconnen
- 6.Apply to multiple places - Canberra's job market is smaller, so submit 10+ applications to increase your chances
Frequently Asked Questions
The ACT doesn't have a specific minimum working age. However, there are strict rules for under-15s, including a limit of 10 hours of work per week during school term. Employers must also ensure work doesn't interfere with your education or wellbeing.
No, the ACT doesn't require work permits for young workers. This makes it simpler to get started compared to some other states. However, most employers will still want parental consent before hiring anyone under 18.
If you're under 15, you can work a maximum of 10 hours per week during school term. This is designed to protect your education. During school holidays, the rules are more flexible, but work still shouldn't be excessive.
Canberra has fewer retail and fast food options than larger cities, but there are still plenty of opportunities. Major employers include McDonald's, Woolworths, Coles, and local cafes. The city also has cinema, hospitality, and sporting venue jobs.
You don't need a TFN to get a job, but you should apply for one before you start working. Without a TFN, your employer must withhold tax at the highest rate (47%), which means you'll take home much less pay than you should.
Yes, McDonald's hires from age 14 in the ACT. Since there's no permit required, you can apply directly online or in-store. Just remember the 10 hour weekly limit during school term if you're under 15.
Last updated: December 2025. Information sourced from the Children and Young People Act 2008 (ACT) and Access Canberra. Rules can change - check official sources for the latest requirements.