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Training and employment
Most young people want to be independent and feel the urge to get a job and make money of their own by the time they reach the teen years.
Working part-time is an excellent way for teenagers to develop a wide range of important skills - such as learning to manage money, working with others, responsibility and independence amongst other things. It is also a great opportunity for meeting people and make new friends and may even spark thinking about future career paths.
Encourage them to think about part time/casual work. To start with, it may be something as simple as babysitting, dog walking or working at a local café or shop. Or talk to them about training opportunities, such as:
- attending a TAFE courses (including those that are now part of the HSC) or apply to attend TAFE or college for study or apprenticeship pathways
- a barista course or other professional training courses.
Getting started
Young people might need help with preparing their first resume, practice interview questions, and open a bank account with a card so they can manage their own money.
Carers and caseworkers should discuss turning up on time, how to tell your boss you’re going to be late or sick, the value of working hard, your rights in the work place and other important practical tips.
Here are more useful resources about training and employment opportunities for young people.
Planning a career
- School subjects you like and jobs they can lead to
- How to make a resume (with examples)
- Interview skills
- My Skills – national directory of Vocational Education and Training (VET) organisations and courses
Getting a job or apprenticeship
- Centrelink – Job seekers
- Job Active - job-seeking support service to young people receiving the Youth Allowance
- Job Jumpstart – a government-run source of online information on how to find a job, build a career and get ahead at work.
- Job Access – job-seeking support service for young people with disability
- Ladder Step Up – program supports young people between 17 – 20 years who are exiting out-of-home care
- Australian Apprenticeships
- Paying for your education
- Tax File Number
- Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
- Fairwork Ombudsman
Last updated:
23 Feb 2023
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