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Employment Relations

Child employment misconceptions revealed in Shepparton business audit

Wage Inspectorate Victoria

A child employment compliance campaign in Shepparton has uncovered widespread misconceptions among local employers regarding child employment laws.

Wage Inspectorate Victoria (WIV) completed 87 audits of restaurants, cafes, and fast-food businesses where children are likely to be employed, particularly during peak times, such as school holidays.

The campaign revealed that many employers incorrectly believed the legal minimum working age was 14 years and 9 months, while others assumed that parental consent alone made it lawful to employ children under 15.

Victorian legislation requires a valid child employment permit— in addition to parental consent—for any child under the age of 15 engaged in work.

Minimum age requirements vary in Victoria depending on the type of work and industry.

In Victoria, a child must be:

  • 11 to deliver newspapers and advertising material
  • 13 to deliver pharmaceutical products or do other types of work, such as retail or hospitality.

There is no age limit for working in entertainment, but there are industry-specific requirements.

The campaign aimed to ensure child employment laws are not just enforced, but clearly understood, helping employers meet their legal obligations and protect young workers.

WIV emphasised that breaches of these laws are taken seriously and addressed swiftly.

WIV has previously completed successful prosecutions against Donut King and Kanteen Krew.

Quotes attributable to Robert Hortle PSM, Commissioner of Wage Inspectorate Victoria

“These laws exist to protect the safety, wellbeing, and rights of young people entering the workforce. Misunderstanding or ignoring them can put children at risk and lead to serious consequences for businesses.”

"Our audits uncovered a surprising number of employers who simply didn’t realise that a child employment licence is a legal requirement—not just a recommendation. This campaign was about clearing up confusion, so businesses can do the right thing by young workers."