Services for Young Workers

Young workers are particularly vulnerable in the workplace because of their lack of knowledge about their employment rights and responsibilities. They often work in casual and part time jobs in industries such as retail and hospitality, where they can be exposed to bullying, harassment and underpayment of wages.

Labour Relations provides a range of services for young workers, including telephone advice, one-on-one meetings and seminars on request.

Your First Job

One of the tools for youth in particular is the Your First Job online learning program. It teaches first time workers about the employment relationship.

Your First Job modules are easy to use. The modules are and cover topics such as:

Module 1 - Getting a job (includes applying for a job, accepting a job, types of work, apprenticeships and traineeships)
Module 2 - Getting started in the job (includes hours of work, payment for work, employee entitlements, location of work, taxation and superannuation, unions)
Module 3 - Issues and problems in the workplace (includes behaviour, bullying, harrassment and discrimination)
Module 4 - Terminating employment (includes outstanding entitlements)

For further information visit the Your First Job website, email yourfirstjob@commerce.wa.gov.au or call Wageline on 1300 655 266.

Tips for Young Workers

If you are attending an interview, you should ask some questions about the job you are interested in.

When discussing a job offer, don't be be afraid to ask:

the name of the business and what it does

the type of work you will be doing

the type of employment (full time, part time, casual)

if you will need or get any training to perform the job

what hours you will work, including start and finish times

what the pay rates and conditions will be

the name of any State or federal award/agreement covering the job

Tips for Young Workers Publication (wallet-sized printable version).