Jobs for Teenagers in Queensland
Queensland has some of the most flexible teen employment laws in Australia. You can start working from age 13, and there's no work permit required. This guide covers everything you need to know about finding your first job in Brisbane and across Queensland.
Quick Facts
- Minimum working age:
- 13 (with some restrictions)
- Work permit required:
- No
- Max hours during school term:
- 12 hours/week (under 16)
- Max hours during holidays:
- 38 hours/week (under 16)
What Age Can You Start Working in Queensland?
Queensland allows teenagers to work from age 13, making it one of the most accessible states for young job seekers. The Child Employment Act 2006 sets out the rules, but they're less restrictive than in states like Victoria or NSW.
Here's what you can do at each age in Queensland:
| Age | What You Can Do | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Under 13 | Very limited work - newspaper delivery, family business, entertainment with parent present | Must not interfere with education |
| 13-15 | Most retail and fast food jobs, cafes, cinemas, supermarkets | Max 12 hrs/week during school, parental consent required |
| 16-17 | Most jobs (some restrictions on hazardous work until 18) | No specific hour limits, general workplace laws apply |
Once you turn 16, the Child Employment Act no longer applies to you, and you can work the same hours as an adult. However, there are still some restrictions on hazardous work, alcohol service, and late-night shifts until you turn 18.
No Work Permit Required
Unlike Victoria, Queensland does not require teenagers to obtain a work permit or employment license. This makes it much simpler to get started. Once you find an employer willing to hire you, you can start work as soon as you have your paperwork sorted.
However, employers still have obligations under the Child Employment Act 2006. They must ensure your work doesn't affect your health, safety, or education. They also need to keep records and ensure you're not working prohibited hours.
What You Will Need
Even without a work permit, you'll need to provide a few things before you can start:
- Written parental consent - Your parent or guardian must provide written permission if you're under 16
- Tax File Number (TFN) - Apply for this before you get a job offer to avoid delays
- Bank account details - Most employers pay electronically
- Proof of identity - Birth certificate, passport, or student ID
Working Hours Rules
Queensland has clear rules about how many hours under-16s can work. These are designed to protect your education and wellbeing. Once you turn 16, these specific limits no longer apply.
During School Term
| Day Type | Maximum Hours | Time Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| School day | 4 hours | Not during school hours, not before 6am or after 10pm |
| Non-school day | 8 hours | Not before 6am or after 10pm |
| Per week | 12 hours maximum | Combined school days and non-school days |
During School Holidays
The rules are more flexible during school holidays. Under-16s can work up to 38 hours per week and 8 hours per day. The 6am to 10pm restriction still applies - no overnight shifts for under-16s.
These limits are per person, not per job. If you have two part-time jobs, your combined hours across both must stay within the limits.
Where to Find Jobs in Queensland
These employers are known to hire teenagers in Queensland. Brisbane has the most opportunities, but regional areas like the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Cairns also have good options, especially in tourism and hospitality.
Fast Food (Hire from 13-14)
- McDonald's - Many QLD stores hire from 13, others from 14
- KFC - Hires from 14, kitchen and counter roles
- Hungry Jack's - Good first job option, hires from 14
- Red Rooster - Hires from 14 in most stores
- Domino's - Some stores hire from 13 for in-store roles
Supermarkets (Hire from 14-15)
- Woolworths - Hires from 14 years 9 months
- Coles - Generally hires from 15
- ALDI - Hires from 16 (higher pay, fewer shifts available)
- IGA - Varies by store, many hire younger teens
Tourism and Hospitality
Queensland's tourism industry creates extra opportunities for teens, especially on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and in Cairns.
- Theme parks (Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World) - Usually hire from 15
- Cafes and ice cream shops - Popular in beach areas, ask in person
- Surf shops and beach hire - Seasonal work, great for summer
- Mini golf, arcades, and attractions - Often hire from 14
Other Options
- Cinemas (Event, Hoyts, Village) - Usually from 14-15
- Sports clubs and pools - Great for summer work
- Tutoring - If you're strong in a subject
- Pet sitting and dog walking - Flexible, work for yourself
Getting Started Checklist
Ready to find your first job in Queensland? Here's what you need to do:
- 1.Talk to your parents - You'll need their written consent if you're under 16, and most employers want parental approval anyway
- 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.Apply to multiple places - Don't just apply to one. Submit 5-10 applications to increase your chances.
- 6.Set up a bank account - You'll need this for your employer to pay you. Most banks offer free accounts for under-18s.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Queensland, you can start working from age 13. This is more flexible than most other states. However, there are restrictions on the type of work and hours for under-16s, governed by the Child Employment Act 2006.
No. Unlike Victoria, Queensland does not require a work permit or employment license for teenagers. However, employers must still comply with child employment laws around hours and work types.
During school term, under-16s in Queensland can work a maximum of 12 hours per week. On a school day, you cannot work more than 4 hours. During school holidays, you can work up to 38 hours per week.
Yes, McDonald's in Queensland can hire from age 13, though individual stores may have their own minimum age of 14. You don't need a work permit, but you'll still need a TFN and your parent's consent.
Under-16s in Queensland cannot work between 10pm and 6am on any day. This applies year-round, whether during school term or holidays. Some industries like entertainment may have different rules.
Yes. Under the Child Employment Act 2006, your parent or guardian must give written consent before you can start work if you're under 16. Most employers will require this consent in writing.
Last updated: December 2025. Information sourced from the Child Employment Act 2006 (Qld) and Worksafe Queensland. Rules can change - check official sources for the latest requirements.