Over the coming week, Wage Inspectorate Victoria’s child employment officers will be in Mildura, educating businesses about child employment laws and ensuring those employing kids under 15 are complying with their obligations.

In Victoria, employers need a permit before a child under 15 years of age can be employed, although there are some exemptions, such as for children employed in family businesses.

Businesses selected for a compliance check may be asked to provide documents relating to any children under 15 years of age they employ. They can expect officers to be professional in all their dealings with them and to explain their rights and obligations.

The officers will also take the opportunity to outline changes to child employment laws that take effect on 1 July, which strengthen protections and make hiring kids a simpler process.

Most notably, a licensing system will replace the existing permit system. A licence will enable a business to employ multiple children under one licence, rather than applying for a permit for each child they employ.

Wage Inspectorate Victoria will help employers navigate this space and answer any questions.

Information and tools are available at wageinspectorate.vic.gov.au.