Jobs for Teenagers in New South Wales

What Age Can You Start Working in NSW?

Unlike some other states, NSW doesn't have a single minimum working age written into law. Instead, the age you can start depends on the industry and the type of work. In practice, most employers in retail and fast food start hiring from 14 or 15.

Here's what you can typically expect at each age:

There are still some restrictions that apply until you turn 18, mainly around serving alcohol, working in certain hazardous environments, and very late night shifts. But for most typical teen jobs, you're good to go from 14-15.

Working Hours Rules

The biggest rule you need to know in NSW is the 50-hour combined limit. During school term, your total hours of school attendance plus paid work cannot exceed 50 hours per week. This is designed to make sure work doesn't interfere with your education.

The 50-Hour Combined Limit

Here's how it works in practice: if you spend 30 hours at school (including travel time in some interpretations), you can work up to 20 hours that week. If you have a week with fewer school hours, you might be able to work more.

During School Holidays

During school holidays, the 50-hour combined limit doesn't apply in the same way since you're not attending school. You can work more hours, though general workplace health and safety rules still apply. Most employers will schedule you for more shifts during holidays if you want them.

Other Hour Restrictions

While NSW is more flexible than Victoria, employers still need to make sure your work hours don't affect your health, development, or education. Most responsible employers won't schedule under-18s past 10pm on school nights, and they'll limit consecutive work days.

Where to Find Jobs in NSW

Sydney and regional NSW have plenty of options for teen workers. Here are the main employers who regularly hire teenagers, starting with those who hire the youngest.

Fast Food (Hire from 14)

• McDonald's - Largest employer of teens in Australia, apply online
• KFC - Hires from 14, good training program
• Hungry Jack's - Hires from 14, similar roles to McDonald's
• Red Rooster - Hires from 14 at most locations
• Subway - Hires from 14-15 depending on franchisee

Supermarkets (Hire from 14-15)

• Woolworths - Hires from 14 years 9 months for various roles
• Coles - Generally hires from 15
• ALDI - Hires from 16 only, but pays more per hour
• IGA - Varies by store, often more flexible with age

Retail and Entertainment

• Event Cinemas - Usually hire from 14-15
• Hoyts - Similar to Event, good for movie lovers
• Target - Hires from 15 in most stores
• Cotton On - Popular with teens, usually from 15
• JB Hi-Fi - Usually 16+, but some stores hire 15

Other Options

• Cafes and bakeries - Ask locally, many hire from 14-15
• Sports clubs and aquatic centres - Great for summer work
• Tutoring younger students - If you're strong academically
• Babysitting - No age limit, build your own clients

Getting Started Checklist

Ready to find your first job in NSW? Here's what you need to do:

• 1.Check your age against employers - Use the list above to find employers who hire at your age. No point applying to places that won't consider you yet.
• 2.Apply for your TFN - Do this before you get a job offer. It takes a few weeks to arrive and you'll need it before your first shift.
• 3.Set up a bank account - Most employers pay electronically. If you don't have your own account, open one with a parent's help.
• 4.Create a basic resume - Even with no experience, you can include school achievements, volunteer work, and skills.
• 5.Talk to your parents - Let them know you're job hunting. They might have contacts, and employers often want to speak with parents of younger workers.
• 6.Apply to multiple places - Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to 5-10 places to increase your chances of getting an interview.