Jobs for Teenagers in South Australia

What Age Can You Start Working in SA?

South Australia doesn't have a specific minimum working age written into law like some other states. Instead, general workplace safety laws apply to all workers, and individual employers set their own age policies. In practice, most major employers start hiring at 14 or 15.

This means the main factor determining when you can start working is what employers are willing to offer, rather than strict government regulations. Here's what you can typically expect:

While there are fewer legal restrictions in SA, general workplace health and safety laws still protect you. Employers can't ask you to do hazardous work, and they must provide safe working conditions regardless of your age.

Working Hours Rules

Unlike Victoria or New South Wales, South Australia doesn't set specific limits on how many hours teenagers can work. There are no government-mandated caps on daily or weekly hours for young workers.

However, this doesn't mean there are no protections. Employers are still required to ensure that work doesn't interfere with your education and that you're working in safe conditions. Most responsible employers will limit shifts for school-age workers to reasonable hours.

What to Expect in Practice

Even without strict legal limits, most employers follow sensible practices for teenage workers. Typical expectations include:

• Shorter shifts on school nights (usually 3-4 hours)
• Longer shifts available on weekends and school holidays
• No late-night shifts for younger teenagers (most finish by 9-10pm)
• Flexibility around exam periods and school commitments

When you interview for a job, be upfront about your school commitments and availability. Good employers will work with your schedule rather than against it.

Where to Find Jobs in South Australia

These employers are known to hire teenagers in Adelaide and across South Australia. The lack of permit requirements makes the application process straightforward compared to states like Victoria.

Fast Food (Hire from 14)

• McDonald's - Largest employer of teens, apply online through their careers site
• KFC - Hires from 14, kitchen and counter roles available
• Hungry Jack's - Good first job option with flexible hours
• Red Rooster - Hires from 14 in most locations
• Subway - Many stores hire from 14-15

Supermarkets (Hire from 14-15)

• Woolworths - Hires from 14 years 9 months for trolley and checkout roles
• Coles - Generally hires from 15, various in-store roles
• ALDI - Hires from 16, known for higher pay
• Foodland - SA local chain, hiring ages vary by store
• IGA - Independently owned stores often hire younger teens

Other Options

• Cinemas (Hoyts, Event Cinemas) - Usually from 14-15
• Cafes and bakeries around Adelaide - Ask in person
• Rundle Mall retail stores - Many hire from 15
• Local pools and recreation centres - Great for summer work
• Sports clubs and stadiums - Event-day casual work

Getting Started Checklist

Ready to find your first job in South Australia? The process is simpler than in some other states since you don't need a work permit. Here's what you need to do:

• 1.Talk to your parents - Most employers want parental consent for under-18s, and they can help with paperwork and transport to interviews
• 2.Apply for your TFN - Do this before you get a job offer. Without a TFN, you'll be taxed at the highest rate (47%).
• 3.Create a basic resume - Even without experience, you can list school achievements, sports, 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 put all your eggs in one basket. Submit 5-10 applications to improve your chances.
• 6.Set up a bank account - You'll need somewhere for your pay to go. Most banks offer fee-free accounts for under-18s.