Getting the Right Career Information
When students start thinking about subject choices, university, or future careers, they often turn to the people they trust most parents, teachers, and friends. These conversations are important and helpful. However, career pathways, university entry requirements, and training options change regularly, and advice that was correct a few years ago may no longer apply.
To support students and families, our Careers Hub provides a range of up-to-date self-help resources that answer common career questions and help students explore their options with confidence.
What You Can Find on the Careers Hub
Students and families can explore information about:
• Career Exploration – discover different industries and career pathways
• Vocational Education and Training (VET) – certificates, traineeships and apprenticeships
• Year 10 and Senior Planning – understanding subject choices and pathways
• Work Experience – opportunities to explore careers in the workplace
• Job Seeking – tips for resumes, interviews and finding part-time work
• Booking a Careers Appointment – personalised support when needed
Start the Conversation
We encourage students and families to explore the Careers Hub together and use these resources to guide career conversations at home.
Good decisions start with good information.
Working While at School
Casual work can be a great opportunity for secondary College students. It allows young people to gain real world experience, develop workplace skills, and earn their own money. However, there are important laws in Queensland designed to ensure that work does not interfere with a student’s education, health, or wellbeing. The employment of young people under 18 in Queensland is regulated by the Child Employment Act 2006 and the Child Employment Regulation 2016. These laws protect young workers and set clear limits on the type of work and hours students can undertake while they are still at school.
Minimum Age for Employment
In Queensland, the general minimum age to work is 13 years.
Children aged 11–13 years may only work in specific supervised roles such as:
• Delivering newspapers
• Delivering advertising material or leaflets
These jobs must be light duties and completed during daytime non-school hours to ensure younger children are working safely.
Working Hours for School-Aged Students
A school-aged child is generally someone under 16 who has not completed Year 10. There are strict limits on the hours they can work.
During a school week:
• Up to 4 hours on a school day
• Up to 8 hours on a non-school day
• Maximum 12 hours total during the school week
During a non-school week (such as school holidays):
• Up to 8 hours per day
• Up to 38 hours per week
Students cannot work during the hours they are required to attend school.
Night Work Restrictions
To protect students’ sleep and wellbeing:
• School-aged children cannot work between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am.
• Children aged 11–13 doing delivery work cannot work between 6:00 pm and 6:00 am.
Breaks and Shifts
Employers must ensure students have adequate rest breaks.
Students:
• Should not work more than one shift per day
• Must receive a 1-hour break after four hours of work
• Must have at least 12 hours between shifts with the same employer
These rules help ensure students maintain a healthy balance between school, work, and rest.
Parental Permission Required
Before employing a school-aged child, employers must obtain written consent from a parent or guardian. The consent form must include the student’s school hours, that must be updated if those hours change.
DID YOU KNOW?
Research from Safe Work Australia shows that young workers aged 15–24 are more likely to experience workplace injuries than older workers.
This is often because they:
• Have less workplace experience
• May receive limited training
• May be less confident speaking up about safety concerns
Knowing the rights and the rules around working hours can help students stay safe and confident at work.
Finding the Right Balance
Part-time work can be a positive and rewarding experience for students. It provides opportunities to develop independence, learn new skills, and gain valuable workplace experience. At the same time, it’s important that school remains the priority. Queensland’s child employment laws are designed to help students balance work with their education, health, and wellbeing.
Did you know that a parent commits an offence under the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006 if they allow their child to work when they should be at school. If students or families are unsure about employment rules or working hours, they are encouraged to speak with the College careers team before accepting a job. Getting the right advice early can help ensure that work is a safe and positive experience.
Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development
Project Paws was created in 2025 by 4 Pacific Year 8 girls for their entry into the National Future Problem Solving competition. These students are now preparing for the international competition to be held in Indiana in June and are working hard to continue to educate our College community about the importance of responsible pet ownership.
