VICTORIA’S child employment watchdog is urging local businesses intending to hire young people under the age of 15 over the summer holidays to ensure they apply for a child employment licence now.
To help with seasonal demand and extended operating hours, businesses across the region commonly hire young people, however, children under the age of 15 cannot start work until a child employment licence has been issued.
With a licence, Victorian businesses can hire children as young as 13 in industries such as retail and hospitality.
These licences are free, and a business can employ multiple young people under one licence, but they can take up to 10 business days to be processed.
Wage Inspectorate Victoria Commissioner Robert Hortle said the weeks ahead of summer trading could be busy, so it is important for employers to be organised.
“If you don’t apply for a licence in time, you risk having to delay the child’s start date and being short-staffed.
“The lead up to the festive season can be a busy time, so it’s important for employers to plan ahead and leave enough time to apply for a licence and familiarise themselves with the law.”
“The laws are easy to understand and the Wage Inspectorate is here to help, so there’s really no excuse for noncompliance.”
He said parents also have a role to play.
“If your child is under 15 and starting their first job over summer, make sure the employer has a child employment licence.
“It’s a simple step you can take to ensure they have...
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