'It's important for employers to plan ahead and leave enough time to apply for a licence and familiarise themselves with the law,' says Commissioner
With the summer holidays fast approaching, Wage Inspectorate Victoria is reminding businesses across the state to apply for child employment licences if they plan to hire children under 15.
The reminder comes as many businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors typically hire young workers to meet increased demand during the festive season.
"Kids under 15 cannot start work until the business has a licence," said Robert Hortle, Commissioner of Wage Inspectorate Victoria, in a statement. "So, if you don't apply for a licence in time, you risk having to delay the child's start date and being short-staffed."
Child employment licences
In Victoria, children as young as 13 can work in certain industries, but a child employment licence is required for any employer hiring a child under the age of 15.
The licences are free but can take up to 10 business days to process. Failure to apply for the necessary licence can delay a child's start date, leaving businesses understaffed during the busy holiday period.
According to the watchdog, businesses can hire multiple children under a single licence, but they must comply with the state's regulations regarding the protection of young workers.
Employers who are found to be non-compliant with legal requirements may receive hefty fines of more than $200,000.
"The lead-up to the festive season can be a busy time, so it's important for employers to plan ahead and leave enough time to apply for a licence and familiarise themselves with the law," Hortle said.
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Inspections to take place
To ensure compliance, the Wage Inspectorate said it will again conduct inspections during the summer holiday period.
According to Hortle, there should be no excuse for non-compliance given that child employment licences are free, the laws are easy to understand, and the Wage Inspectorate is ready to help.
Last summer, inspectors visited holiday hotspots along Victoria's Surf Coast and discovered that 89% of businesses employing children under 15 were found to be breaching at least one aspect of the law.