My son Robbie, who is 12, wants to get a job doing a paper run. Is this OK?
Yes. He can hold most jobs at any age outside of required school hours. He cannot work between 10pm and 6am unless his employer follows a code of practice relating to the employment of young people in that area of work approved by the Minister of Health.
There is no legal minimum wage for those under 16.
My 16-year-old son Nathan is keen to play in the "Casino" at the local pub. Can he?
No, not unless you're prepared to supervise him. Pokies must be situated in a "designated" area in a pub or bar which means that, in general, you have to be at least 18 to play them.
Leanne, who is 17, wants to buy a stereo on hire-purchase. Can she enter into a contract like this?
Yes. Leanne can sign a contract at any age. However, until she is 18, the Minors' Contracts Act applies and contracts are enforceable only if they are fair and reasonable.
If she gets married, Leanne will be treated as an adult regardless of her age and all contracts will be enforceable against her.
Mackenzie, who turned six yesterday, wants to open his own bank account. Can he?
Probably not until he is at least a year older. Most banks will let a seven-year-old open and withdraw money from a savings account. A bank might consider letting Mackenzie open an account earlier if he can sign his name, so ask around. Of course, you can open an account for him at any age.
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