What teenagers need to know before their first job

Before a teenager starts their first job, they should know the agreed pay rate, employment type, expected hours, when they will be paid, how to read a payslip, and where tax and superannuation go. They should also know that keeping records and asking questions is normal.

A first job can arrive quickly. The practical setup is easier if the family covers it before the first shift rather than after the first confusing pay.

Confirm what the job actually is

Ask the employer for the basics in writing:

• the employer's legal or trading name
• job title and main duties
• casual, part-time or full-time status
• pay rate and relevant award or agreement
• ordinary hours and how rosters are provided
• penalty rates or loadings that may apply
• pay day and payment method
• who to contact about a pay problem

Fair Work rules and minimum rates depend on the job, age, industry, classification and employment type. Do not rely on what a friend earns in a different workplace.

Use the Fair Work Ombudsman's Pay and Conditions Tool to check the current position. Junior rates may apply in some awards, while other awards pay the adult rate.

Set up the bank, tax and super details

The employer will usually ask for bank details, a tax file number declaration and superannuation information. A teenager can apply for a tax file number through the Australian Taxation Office if they do not already have one.

Keep these details private. They should be provided through the employer's verified process, not sent in response to an unexpected message.

From 1 July 2026, employers generally have to pay superannuation contributions each payday. The super guarantee rate is 12% of qualifying earnings. For workers under 18, the current eligibility rule also includes working more than 30 hours in a week. Check the ATO and Fair Work guidance because rules can change and individual circumstances differ.

Explain gross pay, net pay and super

The advertised hourly rate is not always the amount that reaches the bank account.

Gross pay is earnings before tax and other deductions. Net pay is what is paid after deductions. Superannuation is generally paid to a super fund and is not part of the spendable bank balance.

Walk through the first payslip together and find:

• employer and employee details
• pay period and pay date
• ordinary and penalty hours
• hourly rates
• gross pay
• tax and other deductions
• net pay
• superannuation information

The hours on the payslip should match the teenager's own record.

Keep a simple shift record

Use a note, calendar or Fair Work's Record My Hours app to record each shift. Include start time, finish time and breaks. Keep rosters, timesheets and payslips.

This is not an accusation against the employer. It is a basic money habit. Most pay questions are easier to resolve when everyone can see the dates and hours.

Decide what the first pay needs to do

Before the money arrives, agree on a simple split. For example:

• regular commitments first
• some money towards a short-term goal
• some money for spending
• a small buffer for unexpected costs

Avoid taking control of the entire pay. The teenager needs room to experience earning, choosing and adjusting. If they are expected to contribute to household costs, explain the amount and purpose before the first pay.

What if the pay looks wrong?

Start with the record. Compare the payslip with the roster and hours worked. Ask the manager or payroll contact a specific question such as, "I worked five hours on Sunday and can only see three ordinary hours on this payslip. Can you help me understand it?"

If the explanation does not resolve the issue, use the Fair Work Ombudsman's information and tools. A young worker can ask a parent, carer, union or trusted adult to help them understand the process.

Urgency or secrecy around paying money to get a job is a warning sign. Be cautious of offers that require gift cards, crypto, transfers to a "safe" account, or buying equipment from a named supplier before the employer can be verified.

Sources

• Fair Work Ombudsman: Before starting employment
• Fair Work Ombudsman: Tax and superannuation
• Australian Taxation Office: Working as an employee

This article provides general information. Pay, tax and superannuation rules depend on the job and circumstances, so check the current official guidance.