Legal Working Age in Queensland, Australia: 15—With Strict Safeguards for Under-18s
Minimum Age
15 years old for most employment in Queensland.
Prohibited Work for Under-18s
- Dangerous machinery/chemicals
- Confined spaces (tanks, silos)
- Flammable/explosive materials
- Electrical work
- Any job deemed hazardous by WHSQ
Hours Limits (Under 18)
| Period | Max Hours |
|---|
| School term | 20 hrs/week |
| School holidays | 40 hrs/week |
| Any single day | 8 hrs |
| School day | 4 hrs |
Time-of-Day Restrictions
- School days: 6 AM – 6 PM only
- Non-school days: 6 AM – 10 PM
Special Rules for Under-16s
- No work during school hours
- Parent/guardian written consent often required
- Employer must hold Blue Card (working with children) if applicable
Enforcement
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) and Fair Work Ombudsman investigate violations. Penalties apply to employers.
Source: Child Employment Act 2006 (QLD), Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth).
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