Jobs for Teenagers in Northern Territory
The Northern Territory has a smaller job market than other states, but there are still opportunities for teens, especially in Darwin and tourist areas. The good news is that the NT has simpler rules than most other states, with no work permits required and no set minimum working age. Here's everything you need to know about finding your first job in the Territory.
Quick Facts
- Minimum working age:
- No set minimum (restrictions apply)
- Work permit required:
- No
- Key legislation:
- Care and Protection of Children Act
- Main job market:
- Darwin and tourism areas
What Age Can You Start Working in the NT?
Unlike most Australian states, the Northern Territory doesn't specify a minimum working age. Instead, the Care and Protection of Children Act focuses on protecting young people from work that could harm their health, safety, or education.
In practice, most employers set their own minimum age requirements, and you'll find that fast food chains and supermarkets typically hire from 14 or 15. Here's what you can expect at different ages:
| Age | What You Can Do | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under 13 | Limited to light work such as babysitting, newspaper delivery, or family business help | Must not affect health or schooling |
| 13-14 | Retail, fast food, hospitality (some employers may wait until 15) | Parental consent typically required |
| 15+ | Most jobs available (some restrictions until 18) | Wider range of employers will hire you |
Even without a set minimum age, employers must ensure that work is safe and appropriate for young people. You cannot work in jobs that are hazardous, involve alcohol service (until 18), or could interfere with your education.
Working Hours Rules
The Northern Territory doesn't have specific laws limiting how many hours young people can work. However, the Care and Protection of Children Act requires that employment must not interfere with your education or development.
General Guidelines
While there are no strict hour limits, most employers follow sensible practices for teenage workers. You should expect that work won't be scheduled during school hours, and most employers limit teen shifts to reasonable lengths, especially on school nights.
| Situation | What to Expect | Your Rights |
|---|---|---|
| School days | After school and evening shifts only | Work must not affect your schooling |
| School holidays | More hours available, day shifts possible | Still entitled to reasonable breaks |
| Weekends | Often the busiest time for teen shifts | Higher penalty rates apply |
If you feel like you're being asked to work too many hours or at inappropriate times, talk to your parents first. They can help you speak with your employer or contact NT WorkSafe if needed.
Where to Find Jobs in the Northern Territory
The NT job market is concentrated in Darwin, with some opportunities in Alice Springs and tourist destinations. The tourism and hospitality sectors are particularly strong, especially during the dry season from April to October when visitor numbers peak.
Fast Food (Hire from 14)
- McDonald's - Multiple locations in Darwin, apply online
- KFC - Hires from 14, kitchen and counter roles
- Hungry Jack's - Good first job option in Darwin
- Red Rooster - Hires from 14 in Darwin stores
- Subway - Several locations, often hire teens
Supermarkets (Hire from 14-15)
- Woolworths - Hires from 14 years 9 months
- Coles - Generally hires from 15
- IGA - Varies by store, often hire younger teens
Tourism and Hospitality (Strong in NT)
- Hotels and resorts - Front desk, housekeeping, food service
- Tourist attractions - Crocosaurus Cove, Wave Lagoon, etc.
- Cafes and restaurants - Especially busy during dry season
- Markets - Mindil Beach Markets and others (seasonal)
Other Options
- Cinemas - Darwin has Event and other venues
- Sports clubs and pools - Great for summer work
- Tutoring - If you're strong in a subject
- Local businesses - Ask around your neighbourhood
Remote Area Considerations
If you live outside Darwin or Alice Springs, job opportunities are more limited. Community stores, family businesses, and pastoral stations may offer work. Some teens travel to Darwin during school holidays to pick up work. Online tutoring or remote customer service roles might also be worth exploring if you have reliable internet.
Getting Started Checklist
Ready to find your first job in the Northern Territory? Here's what you need to do:
- 1.Talk to your parents - Most employers want parental consent for hiring teens, even though no permit is required in the NT
- 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.Check employer minimum ages - Use the list above to find employers who hire at your age
- 5.Consider the dry season - Tourism jobs peak from April to October, so plan your job search accordingly
- 6.Apply to multiple places - Don't just apply to one. Submit 5-10 applications to increase your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Northern Territory doesn't set a specific minimum working age. Instead, the Care and Protection of Children Act protects young workers by ensuring employment doesn't harm their health, safety, education, or development. In practice, most employers hire from 14 or 15.
No, the Northern Territory does not require work permits or child employment permits. However, employers must still comply with the Care and Protection of Children Act and ensure work is appropriate for young people.
Yes, McDonald's typically hires from age 14 in the Northern Territory. There's no permit required, but your parent or guardian will likely need to provide consent before you can start work.
The NT has a smaller population and job market, particularly outside Darwin. However, the tourism and hospitality sectors are strong, especially during the dry season (April to October), creating seasonal opportunities for teens.
In remote areas, job opportunities are more limited. Common options include working for family businesses, community stores, tourism operators, and pastoral stations. Some teens find work during school holidays in Darwin or Alice Springs where more employers are based.
Yes, you should apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) before you start work. Without a TFN, your employer must withhold tax at the highest rate (47%), meaning you'll take home much less pay. Applying is free and can be done online if you're 15 or older.
Last updated: December 2025. Information sourced from the Care and Protection of Children Act 2007 and NT WorkSafe. Rules can change - check official sources for the latest requirements.