It is nearly time for the Perth Royal Show, and Wageline is giving a timely reminder to all business owners, parents and young workers about children working at the Royal Show.
There are restrictions on the ages children can work in Western Australia, and these laws apply to all workplaces including retail outlets, mobile food vans, and amusement rides at the Royal Show.
Business owners and parents need to know:
- 15 years old is the youngest a child can work on an amusement ride, including selling or collecting tickets;
- 13 years old is the youngest a child can work in a retail stall, fast food outlet or café and children who are 13 or 14 must not work before 6am or after 10pm and must have written permission from a parent or guardian;
- a child is considered to be working whether they are paid or not paid for the work they do; and
- business owners can face substantial fines for employing children in breach of these laws – up to $24,000 or up to $120,000 for an incorporated employer.
There are exclusions if the child is working in a family business owned by a relative such as a parent, aunt, uncle or grandparent, or the organisation is a charity or not-for-profit organisation. Children of any age can perform as an actor, musician, or entertainer.
The page of the Wageline website has more information on child employment laws including a parental permission template.
Business owners also need to meet employment obligations, including providing the legally required pay rates for all employees. Visit the to get started on finding the right employment information.
