Getting your first job in Australia: the checklist
6 min read
The information below is provided as a general guide-only. We make no representations about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for your particular circumstances. We recommend checking the information for yourself and where appropriate, obtaining independent professional advice before making any decision or taking any action based on the below.
First job, first casual gig, or first job since arriving in Australia: the paperwork is the same and none of it is hard. Get the items below sorted before you apply and you can say yes to a start date on the spot.
Before you apply
- Tax file number. Free from the ATO. Without one your employer must withhold tax at the top rate. Apply early, it can take a few weeks to arrive.
- Bank account in your own name for wages.
- Super fund. If you have never had one, your employer can use their default fund. If you have worked before, give them your existing fund so you do not end up with several accounts eating fees.
- Photo ID and, for visa holders, proof of your right to work. Employers can check work rights through the Department of Home Affairs VEVO service.
Minimum working age
There is no single national minimum age. Each state and territory sets its own rules on how old you must be, what hours school-age workers can do, and which jobs are off limits. Serving alcohol is 18 and over everywhere. Search your state's "child employment" rules, or start with the Fair Work young workers page.
Tickets that open doors
Local businesses list the credentials they need on every ad. The ones that come up most often:
- RSA for bars, pubs, bottle shops and licensed restaurants. See how to get an RSA.
- Food safety for kitchens and some cafes; a short online course in most states.
- Working with Children Check for anything involving kids, applied for through your state.
- First aid is a bonus almost everywhere and a requirement in some venues.
- Driver's licence for delivery and driving jobs.
Add each one to your work passport once and it shows on every application.
What your employer must give you
- The Fair Work Information Statement, plus the Casual Employment Information Statement if you are casual.
- Pay slips within one working day of each pay.
- Superannuation paid to your fund, shown on your pay slip. See how casual pay works.
- A safe workplace and workers compensation cover from day one.
Your first week
Turn up ten minutes early, ask what the busiest hour looks like, and write down the things you are told once. Reliability is the whole game in local work: turn up to every shift for a month and you will be the first person the owner calls when they need extra hours. On My Local Jobs that shows up as a reliability rating employers can see.
Ready? See what is hiring near you.
Common questions
How old do you have to be to work in Australia?
It depends on the state or territory and the type of work. Some states have no general minimum age but restrict hours and types of work for school-age children, others set a minimum age. Serving alcohol requires you to be 18 everywhere. Check your state's child employment rules.
Do I need a tax file number before I start?
You can start without one, but you should apply as soon as possible. Without a TFN declaration your employer must withhold tax at the highest rate. Applying is free through the ATO.
What documents will an employer ask for?
Usually photo ID, your TFN declaration, your bank details, a super choice form, and any credential the job requires such as an RSA or food safety certificate. Citizens and permanent residents may be asked for proof of work rights; visa holders will be.
What must my employer give me?
The Fair Work Information Statement, and if you are casual, the Casual Employment Information Statement. You must also get pay slips within one working day of each pay.