Understanding Dress Codes

The way you dress says a lot before you even speak. Different workplaces expect different levels of dress, from casual to professional. Understanding these styles helps you choose the right outfit for the job you want, whether it’s your first part-time role or a big interview.

Think of it as showing respect for the workplace and giving yourself confidence to make a strong first impression.

Casual

Comfy and everyday. Think T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers. What you’d wear hanging out with friends.

Smart Casual

A bit tidier than casual. A nice top or sweater with dark jeans or pants, and clean shoes. Great for casual work or meeting someone important but not too formal.

Business Casual

Work-ready but still relaxed. A button-up shirt or blouse with neat pants, not jeans, and proper shoes. What you’d wear for most jobs or interviews.

Business

Full professional look. A suit with a shirt and dress shoes. This is your serious interview or important meeting outfit.

Tax Insights

Learning the basics of tax early can save you a lot of confusion later. When you start working, part of your pay may be withheld for tax, and there are a few key things you need to understand straight away.

The Australian Tax System

Australia has a progressive tax system. The more you earn, the higher percentage of tax you pay. The Australian Taxation Office, or ATO, manages this system.

Income Tax: Paid on wages, investments, and other earnings.

Tax-Free Threshold: The first $18,200 of income you earn in a financial year, from 1 July to 30 June, is tax-free.

More info: www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/jobs-and-employment-types/tax-free-threshold

PAYG, or Pay As You Go: Employers withhold tax from your pay and send it directly to the ATO.

Superannuation: Your employer must also pay an additional percentage into your super fund for your retirement.

Tax Return: At the end of the financial year, you may need to lodge a tax return. If too much tax was taken, you’ll receive a refund. If not enough was taken, you may need to pay the balance.

More info: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/lodging-your-tax-return

What is a Tax File Number, or TFN?

A TFN is your unique personal number used for the tax system. You only ever get one in your lifetime.

It is important because it:

• Ensures the correct amount of tax is withheld from your pay
• Gives you access to superannuation and government services
• Prevents your employer from taxing you at the highest rate

More info: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/tax-file-number

How Teens Can Apply for a TFN

You can apply for a TFN in several ways:

• Online, if 15 or older: Apply on the ATO website. You’ll need proof of identity such as a passport, Medicare card, or birth certificate.
• Apply here: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/tax-file-number/apply-for-a-tfn
• Australia Post: Complete the application online, then verify your identity in person at a participating post office.
• Services Australia, including Centrelink: If you’re under 15, or receiving certain payments, you can apply through Services Australia.

If You Don’t Supply a TFN

• Your employer may need to tax you at the highest rate
• Your super fund may not accept contributions properly
• You could face difficulties later with tax returns, bank accounts, or government services

Working Two Jobs

Many young people work more than one casual job. Here’s how tax applies:

• Tax-Free Threshold: You can only claim this at one job, normally your main job
• Second Job: At your second job, you must answer “No” to the tax-free threshold so enough tax is withheld
• End of Year: The ATO adds up your income from all jobs. If too much tax was withheld, you’ll get a refund. If not enough was withheld, you may owe tax

More info: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/jobs-and-employment-types/tax-free-threshold/multiple-jobs-or-change-of-job

Key Tips for Teens

• Always apply for and provide your TFN before starting work
• Only claim the tax-free threshold at one job
• Keep your TFN private and secure
• Lodge your tax return each year if required

Managing Money

Your first paycheck can feel like a fortune, but it is also the start of building good money habits that can last a lifetime.

Save First, Spend Later

As soon as you’re paid, try moving at least 10 to 20 percent into a savings account. Even $20 a week adds up to over $1,000 a year. Think about what that could mean for you, whether it is new tech, a car deposit, or a holiday.

The Bucket System

Split your money into three categories:

• Needs such as transport or phone credit
• Wants such as clothes, entertainment, or eating out
• Savings for future goals

This makes it easier to enjoy your pay now without wasting all of it at once.

Track Your Spending

Most bank apps let you see where your money goes. If you’re surprised at how much disappears on snacks or streaming, that’s usually a sign to make an adjustment.

Avoid the Debt Trap

It can be tempting to sign up for buy now, pay later services, but they can leave you owing money you do not really have. A good rule is simple: if you cannot pay for it upfront, wait until you can.

Set Goals

Saving is easier when you are working toward something. Write down short-term goals, like shoes or gaming gear, and long-term goals, like a car, laptop, or travel. Then celebrate when you hit them.

Balancing Work and School/Study

Juggling work, school, and a social life can be tricky, but learning how to balance them now builds time-management skills you will use for life.

Be Honest About Your Availability

When you start a job, let your manager know your school timetable and exam dates. Most employers respect young workers who are upfront and organised.

Plan Your Roster

Check your shifts as soon as they are posted. Map them against homework, assignments, sport, and other commitments so nothing sneaks up on you.

Sleep Comes First

Late-night shifts might sound fine until you are exhausted in class the next day. Try to keep a regular sleep routine where possible. Your grades and your health depend on it.

Saying No is Allowed

It can feel awkward to turn down shifts, but it is okay if you genuinely need time for schoolwork, sport, family, or rest. Employers usually prefer honesty over an exhausted staff member.

Use Simple Tools

A diary, phone calendar, planner, or even sticky notes can help you stay on top of deadlines, shifts, and personal time.

Protect Your Downtime

Balance is not just about school and work. You also need time with friends, family, and yourself. Do not feel guilty about protecting your wellbeing.

Work Rights and Responsibilities

When you are starting out, it is easy to think the employer sets all the rules. That is not how it works. In Australia, workers have rights protected by law, and it is important to know them.

Minimum Wage and Junior Rates

If you are under 21, your pay may be based on junior rates, which usually increase as you get older until you reach the full adult minimum wage at 21. That means two people doing similar work may be paid differently because the law sets different age-based rates in some industries.

Penalty Rates and Overtime

If you work nights, weekends, or public holidays, you may be entitled to higher pay, often called penalty rates. Always check your payslip and make sure the hours you worked match what you were paid.

Breaks

You are generally entitled to meal or rest breaks depending on how long your shift is. A typical 4 to 5 hour shift often comes with one break, while longer shifts may come with more. If you are being refused proper breaks, pay attention. That can be a warning sign.

Respect and Safety

You have the right to work in an environment that is safe, respectful, and free from bullying or harassment. Your employer has a legal duty to protect your wellbeing while you are at work.

Safety at Work

No matter how casual the job is, your safety should never be treated as optional. Employers are required to keep you safe, and you have every right to speak up if something is not right.

Training Matters

If you are asked to use equipment such as coffee machines, fryers, ladders, or stockroom tools, you should be shown how to use it properly and safely. If you do not feel confident, ask for more training.

Protective Gear

Some jobs require aprons, gloves, non-slip shoes, or other protective gear. Your employer must either provide this or clearly tell you what you need before you start.

Spotting Hazards

Spilled drinks, broken equipment, loose cords, or cluttered floors may not seem serious, but they can cause injuries. If you see something unsafe, report it straight away.

Mental Safety Matters Too

Safety is not only physical. Bullying, harassment, intimidation, or pressure to work shifts you cannot manage can also create an unsafe workplace. You should never feel threatened or afraid to come to work.

Refusing Unsafe Work

If you genuinely believe a task could put you in danger, you have the legal right to refuse it until it is made safe. You cannot be fired or punished for raising a real safety concern.

Getting Support

If your employer does not listen, you can get help through Safe Work Australia or Fair Work.

Safe Work Australia: www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au