Workforce Inspectorate Victoria (WIV) will carry out a targeted compliance and education compliance activity across the Gippsland region during the April 2026 school holiday and Easter period.
The initiative is in direct response to reports from the public alleging non-compliance with child employment laws in the region.
Intelligence suggests potential breaches are most prevalent in entry-level roles across the accommodation, retail and hospitality sectors.
Surges in short-term labour can heighten the risk of unlawful or unsafe child employment practices, which is why the compliance activity aligns with a seasonal peak in tourism and increased reliance on casual staff in the region.
Young workers are particularly vulnerable to workplace injury due to limited experience, unfamiliarity with hazards and a reluctance to question unsafe work practices.
WIV is committed to mitigating these risks by ensuring employers of children under 15 adhere to Victoria's child employment laws. Under these laws, specific restrictions apply to the types of tasks young workers can perform and the hours they can work.
Members of the public who have concerns about the employment of children under 15 are encouraged to contact the Inspectorate at 1800 287 287.
Quotes attributable to Lily Dekic, Deputy Commissioner, Workforce Inspectorate Victoria
"Young workers under 15 are amongst our most vulnerable. They have less experience and are often less likely to speak up about hazards and working conditions."
"We aren't just here to hand out fines. Our goal is to work with Gippsland employers to ensure they understand their obligations."
Background
Businesses hiring children under 15 must hold a child employment licence and comply with Child Safe Standards.
Child employment laws restrict when businesses can employ children and how long they can work:
- during a school term, children can be employed for a maximum of 3 hours a day and 12 hours per week and cannot work during school hours
- during school holidays, children can be employed up to 6 hours a day and 30 hours a week
- children can only work between 6am and 9pm.
Children must also receive a 30-minute rest break after every 3 hours work and have at least 12 hours break between shifts.
Workers under 15 must be supervised by someone who holds a valid Victorian Working with Children Clearance (unless exempt).
