Jobs for Teenagers in Victoria
Victoria has some of the most detailed child employment laws in Australia. If you're under 15, you'll need a work permit before you can start. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a teenager in Melbourne and across Victoria.
Quick Facts
- Minimum working age:
- 13 (with restrictions)
- Work permit required:
- Yes, for under 15s
- Max hours during school term:
- Limited (see below)
- Max hours during holidays:
- More flexible
What Age Can You Start Working in Victoria?
The minimum working age in Victoria depends on the type of work. Most teenagers start looking for jobs at 14 or 15, which is when fast food chains and retail stores typically start hiring.
Here's a breakdown of what you can do at each age:
| Age | What You Can Do | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|
| Under 13 | Newspaper delivery, entertainment work (acting, modelling), family business only | Yes - special permit |
| 13-14 | Light retail, fast food, babysitting, hospitality (limited roles) | Yes - Child Employment Permit |
| 15+ | Most jobs (some restrictions remain until 18) | No |
Once you turn 15, you no longer need a permit for most jobs. However, there are still restrictions on hazardous work, alcohol service, and late-night shifts until you turn 18.
Do You Need a Work Permit?
If you're under 15, yes. Victoria requires employers to hold a valid Child Employment Permit before they can hire anyone under 15. The good news: the permit is free and straightforward to get.
How to Get a Child Employment Permit
Your parent or guardian applies for the permit through Business Victoria. The employer doesn't apply for it - you do. Here's the process:
- Get a job offer from an employer who hires under-15s (McDonald's, Woolworths, KFC, etc.)
- Your parent visits the Business Victoria website and completes the online application
- The application requires details about the job, hours, and your school
- Permits are usually processed within 2-3 business days
- Once approved, the permit is sent to your parent and the employer
The permit lasts for the duration of your employment with that specific employer. If you change jobs, you'll need a new permit.
Working Hours Rules
Victoria sets limits on how many hours under-15s can work. These rules protect your education and wellbeing. Once you turn 15, these specific limits no longer apply, though general workplace laws still do.
During School Term
| Day Type | Maximum Hours | Time Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| School day | 3 hours | Not during school hours, not before 6am or after 9pm |
| Non-school day | 8 hours | Not before 6am or after 9pm |
| Per week | Limited total | Must not interfere with school |
During School Holidays
The rules are more relaxed during school holidays. You can work up to 8 hours per day, and the weekly limits are higher. However, the 6am-9pm time restrictions still apply for under-15s.
Most employers understand these restrictions and will schedule you accordingly. When you apply, be upfront about your availability and any school commitments.
Where to Find Jobs in Victoria
These employers are known to hire teenagers in Victoria. Most have online application systems, and some prefer you to apply in person.
Fast Food (Hire from 14)
- McDonald's - Largest employer of teens, apply online
- KFC - Hires from 14, kitchen and counter roles
- Hungry Jack's - Similar to Maccas, good first job option
- Red Rooster - Hires from 14 in most stores
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)
- IGA - Varies by store, often hire younger teens
Other Options
- Cinemas (Hoyts, Village, Event) - Usually from 14-15
- Cafes and bakeries - Ask in person, varies widely
- Sports clubs and pools - Great for summer work
- Tutoring - If you're strong in a subject
Getting Started Checklist
Ready to find your first job in Victoria? Here's what you need to do:
- 1.Talk to your parents - You'll need their help with permits if you're under 15, and most employers want parental consent 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.Get your permit - Once you have a job offer and you're under 15, your parent applies for the Child Employment Permit
Frequently Asked Questions
In Victoria, children can work from age 13, but there are strict rules. Under-15s need a Child Employment Permit, and under-13s can only do very limited work like delivering newspapers or entertainment work with special permits.
Yes. If you're under 15, your parent or guardian must apply for the Child Employment Permit on your behalf. Even if you're 15 or older, most employers will want parental consent for hiring minors.
During school term, 14 year olds can work a maximum of 3 hours on a school day and 8 hours on a non-school day. During school holidays, you can work up to 8 hours per day. There are also limits on total weekly hours.
Yes, McDonald's hires from age 14 in Victoria. You'll need a Child Employment Permit, which your parent applies for through Business Victoria. The permit is free and usually processed within a few days.
You don't need a TFN to get a job, but you should apply for one before you start. Without a TFN, your employer must withhold tax at the highest rate (47%), meaning you'll take home much less pay.
At 13, you're limited to light work that won't affect your health, safety, or education. Common jobs include newspaper delivery, babysitting, and working in family businesses. Most retail and fast food jobs require you to be 14 or 15.
Last updated: December 2025. Information sourced from Business Victoria and the Victorian Government. Rules can change - check official sources for the latest requirements.