Commerce WA reminds Perth Royal Show of legalities on children employment

With the 2024 Perth Royal Show commencing on 21st September 2024, Commerce WA has reminded operators of the laws pertaining to employment of children.

The Show is a fun family event for all ages and it is important to highlight that child employment laws in Western Australia apply to children working at the Show.

The laws set restrictions on what ages children can work in Western Australia which apply to all workplaces including retail outlets, mobile food vans, and amusement rides at the Royal Show. Written parental permission is required for some young workers.

Business owners and parents need to know:

• 15 years old is the youngest a child can work on an amusement ride, including selling or collecting tickets;

• 13 years old is the youngest a child can work in a retail stall, fast food outlet or café and children who are 13 or 14 must not work before 6am or after 10pm and must have written permission from a parent or guardian;

• a child is considered to be working whether they are paid or not paid for the work they do; and

• business owners can face substantial fines for employing children in breach of these laws – up to $24,000 or up to $120,000 for an incorporated employer.

• There are exclusions if a child is working in a family business owned by a relative such as a parent, aunt, uncle or grandparent, or the organisation is a charity or not-for-profit organisation.

• Children of any age can perform as an actor, musician, or entertainer.

The When children can work in Western Australia page of the Wageline website has more information on child employment laws including a parental permission template.