Working at Red Rooster Australia
Red Rooster is an iconic Australian fast food chain famous for its roast chicken. With over 360 stores nationwide, Red Rooster is a popular employer for teenagers looking for their first job. As part of Craveable Brands, they offer structured training and career development opportunities. Here's everything you need to know about getting a job at Red Rooster.
Quick Facts
- Minimum age:
- 14 in most states
- Average teen pay:
- $13-$18/hour (junior rates by age)
- How to apply:
- Online at redrooster.com.au/careers
- Common roles:
- Crew Member (counter, kitchen, drive-thru)
How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at Red Rooster?
Red Rooster generally hires from age 14, though this can vary by state and individual store. Some locations may prefer to hire from 15 depending on local management. If you're under 15 in certain states, you'll need a work permit before you can start.
| State | Minimum Age | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|
| Victoria | 14 | Yes, under 15 (Child Employment Permit) |
| New South Wales | 14 | No |
| Queensland | 14 | No |
| Western Australia | 14 | No (school-age restrictions apply) |
| South Australia | 14 | No |
| Tasmania | 14 | No |
| ACT | 14 | No |
| Northern Territory | 14 | No |
The best way to confirm the hiring age at your local Red Rooster is to check their careers website or call the store directly. Store managers make the final decision on hiring, so policies can vary.
What Jobs Can Teens Do at Red Rooster?
Most teenagers start as Crew Members, which is a general role that covers all front-of-house and kitchen duties. As a crew member, you'll rotate through different stations so you learn the whole restaurant.
Counter Service
Taking customer orders at the front counter and processing payments. You'll handle cash and card transactions, answer questions about the menu, and ensure orders are correct before handing them over. This is often where new crew members start because it helps you learn the menu and build customer service skills.
Drive-Thru
Working the drive-thru means taking orders through the headset, processing payments at the window, and handing out food. It's fast-paced and requires good communication skills. Drive-thru is one of the busiest areas, especially during lunch and dinner rushes.
Kitchen
Kitchen work includes preparing chicken, chips, salads, and other menu items. You'll learn to use ovens, fryers, and other equipment safely. There are strict food safety standards to follow, and you'll be trained on all of them. Some kitchen equipment is restricted to workers over 16 or 18.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping the restaurant clean is everyone's job. This includes wiping down tables, mopping floors, restocking supplies, and taking out rubbish. During quieter periods, you'll spend more time on cleaning tasks.
How Much Does Red Rooster Pay?
Red Rooster pays according to the Fast Food Industry Award, which sets minimum pay rates for different ages. As a junior worker (under 21), you'll earn a percentage of the adult rate based on your age. These are the minimum rates - some stores may pay slightly more.
| Age | Approximate Hourly Rate | % of Adult Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 14 years | $12.94 | 50% |
| 15 years | $13.59 | 50% |
| 16 years | $15.53 | 60% |
| 17 years | $17.12 | 70% |
| 18 years | $20.71 | 80% |
| 19 years | $23.30 | 90% |
| 20 years | $25.89 | 100% |
You may also earn penalty rates for working evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Saturday rates are typically 125% of your base rate, and Sunday rates are 150%. Public holidays can be up to 250%. These extras can add up significantly if you work weekend shifts.
How to Apply for a Job at Red Rooster
Red Rooster uses an online application system through their parent company Craveable Brands. Here's how to apply step by step:
- Go to the Red Rooster careers website - Visit redrooster.com.au/careers and click on "Restaurant Crew" or search for jobs in your area.
- Find stores near you - Enter your suburb or postcode to see which locations are hiring. Apply to multiple stores to increase your chances.
- Complete the online application - You'll need to provide your contact details, availability, and answer some basic questions about yourself. Be honest about your age and when you can work.
- Submit your application - Double-check your details, especially your phone number and email address. This is how the store will contact you.
- Wait for a response - If your application is successful, the store manager will contact you within 1-2 weeks to arrange an interview. If you don't hear back after two weeks, try calling the store.
Some stores also accept walk-in applications, especially during busy hiring periods. If you'd prefer to apply in person, visit the store during a quiet time (avoid lunch and dinner rushes) and ask to speak with a manager.
Interview Tips for Red Rooster
Red Rooster interviews are usually informal and relaxed. The manager wants to see that you're friendly, reliable, and can work in a team. Here's how to prepare:
What to Wear
Dress neatly but don't overdo it. Clean jeans or pants with a plain shirt or polo is fine. Avoid anything too casual like ripped jeans, thongs, or clothing with offensive graphics. You want to look like someone who could work in food service.
Common Interview Questions
Be ready to answer questions like: Why do you want to work at Red Rooster? When are you available to work? How would you handle an unhappy customer? Can you give an example of working in a team? Think about your answers beforehand, but don't memorise scripts - just speak naturally.
What They're Looking For
Red Rooster values enthusiasm, reliability, and teamwork. Show that you're keen to learn, can follow instructions, and will show up on time for your shifts. If you have any experience working with others (sports teams, school projects, volunteering), mention it.
Questions to Ask
Asking questions shows you're interested. Try asking: What does training involve? How many hours would I typically work per week? What's the team like at this store? These show you're thinking seriously about the job.
Getting Started Checklist
Ready to apply at Red Rooster? Here's what you need to prepare:
- 1.Check you meet the age requirement - Red Rooster hires from 14 in most states, but confirm with your local store
- 2.Apply for your TFN - You'll need a Tax File Number before you start work. Apply now as it takes a few days to arrive.
- 3.Get a bank account - Red Rooster pays directly into your bank account, so make sure you have one set up
- 4.Check if you need a work permit - In Victoria, under-15s need a Child Employment Permit. Check your state's requirements
- 5.Figure out your availability - Know which days and hours you can work around school commitments
- 6.Apply online - Visit redrooster.com.au/careers and submit your application
- 7.Understand superannuation - Your employer will pay super into an account for you. Learn how it works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Red Rooster typically hires from age 14 in most Australian states. However, the minimum age can vary by location, and in some states like Victoria, you'll need a child employment permit if you're under 15. Check with your local store for their specific requirements.
No, you don't need any previous work experience. Red Rooster provides full training for all new crew members. They're specifically looking for first-time workers and train you on everything from customer service to food preparation and safety.
Red Rooster pays junior rates based on your age under the Fast Food Industry Award. At 14-15, expect around $13-14 per hour. At 16, around $15-16 per hour. At 17, around $17-18 per hour. Weekend and late-night shifts may include penalty rates.
Your hours depend on your age and state laws. Generally, under-15s can't work late nights or during school hours. Most teen crew members work after school, on weekends, and during school holidays. Red Rooster is flexible with scheduling around school commitments.
Crew members rotate between different stations including taking orders at the counter, working the drive-thru, preparing food in the kitchen, keeping the restaurant clean, and restocking supplies. You'll learn all areas of the restaurant over time.
Most applicants hear back within 1-2 weeks if their application is successful. If you haven't heard back after two weeks, it's worth calling or visiting the store to follow up. Make sure your contact details are correct on your application.
Last updated: December 2025. Information sourced from Pay rates are based on the Fair Work Fast Food Industry Award. Actual pay and hiring policies may vary by location. Visit redrooster.com.au/careers for the most current job listings and requirements.. Pay rates and hiring policies are subject to change.