Minimum Age to Work at Woolworths:
Complete Guide 2025
Woolworths is one of Australia’s largest employers, offering thousands of job opportunities for young people seeking their first job or part-time work. Understanding the minimum age requirements and what to expect when applying as a young worker will help you determine if you’re eligible and prepare you for the application process.
This comprehensive guide explains Woolworths’ age requirements, what positions are available for young workers, legal requirements by state, and everything you need to know about starting your career at Woolworths.
Quick Answer: Minimum Age to Work at Woolworths
The minimum age to work at Woolworths is generally 15 years old, though this can vary slightly depending on your state or territory and the specific role.
However, the actual minimum age depends on several factors:
- Your state or territory’s minimum working age laws
- The specific position you’re applying for
- Whether you’re still attending school
- Store-specific requirements and availability
Woolworths Age Requirements by Position
Standard Store Positions (Age 15+)
Checkout Operator: Minimum age 15 years old. This is one of the most common entry-level positions for young workers.
Service Assistant: Minimum age 15 years old. Involves customer service, restocking shelves, and general store duties.
Online Personal Shopper: Minimum age 15-16 years old. Requires ability to pick and pack online orders efficiently.
Night Fill Team Member: Minimum age 15-16 years old, but many stores prefer 16+ due to late-night hours and physical demands.
Specialized Positions (Age 16-18+)
Deli/Seafood/Meat Department: Typically 16-18 years old due to use of knives, slicers, and other equipment requiring additional training.
Bakery Assistant: Typically 16+ years old due to use of ovens and baking equipment.
Liquor Department (BWS, Woolworths Liquor): Must be 18 years or older to sell alcohol. This is a legal requirement across all Australian states and territories.
Duty Manager/Supervisor: Typically 18+ years old and requires previous retail experience.
Forklift Operator (Distribution Centers): Must be 18+ years old and hold appropriate licenses.
State-by-State Minimum Working Age Laws
Woolworths must comply with each state and territory’s child employment laws. Here’s what you need to know:
New South Wales (NSW)
Minimum Age: No specific minimum age in legislation, but Woolworths generally hires from age 15.
School Hours: Cannot work during school hours unless you’ve completed Year 10 or reached age 15 (whichever comes first).
Restrictions:
- Maximum 12 hours per week during school term
- Must have 12-hour break between shifts
- Cannot work before 6:00 AM or after 10:00 PM on school nights
Victoria (VIC)
Minimum Age: Children under 15 can work, but employers need a Child Employment Permit. Woolworths typically hires from age 15 to avoid permit requirements.
School Hours: Cannot work during school hours unless you’ve completed Year 10 or turned 15.
Restrictions:
- Limited hours during school terms
- Cannot work late nights on school nights
- Specific restrictions on types of work
Queensland (QLD)
Minimum Age: Generally 13 years old (11 for supervised delivery work), but Woolworths typically hires from age 15.
School Hours: Cannot work during school hours if under 16 and still attending school.
Restrictions:
- Maximum hours per week during school term
- Cannot work in hazardous conditions
- Parental consent may be required
South Australia (SA)
Minimum Age: No specific minimum age, but Woolworths generally hires from age 15.
School Hours: Cannot work during school hours if of compulsory school age.
Restrictions:
- Limited hours for school-age children
- Cannot work in dangerous conditions
Western Australia (WA)
Minimum Age: Children under 15 who are attending school generally cannot be employed. Woolworths typically hires from age 15.
School Hours: Cannot work during school hours if under school leaving age.
Restrictions:
- Strict regulations on hours and conditions
- Employer may need permits for workers under 15
Tasmania (TAS)
Minimum Age: No specific minimum age, but restrictions apply. Woolworths generally hires from age 15.
School Hours: Cannot work during school hours if of compulsory school age.
Restrictions:
- Limited hours for school-age children
- Cannot work in hazardous conditions
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Minimum Age: No specific minimum age, but Woolworths generally hires from age 15.
School Hours: Cannot work during school hours if of compulsory school age.
Restrictions:
- Reasonable hours that don’t interfere with education
- Safe working conditions required
Northern Territory (NT)
Minimum Age: No specific minimum age in legislation, but Woolworths generally hires from age 15.
School Hours: Cannot work during school hours if of compulsory school age.
Restrictions:
- Must not interfere with education
- Safe working conditions required
Why Woolworths Generally Hires from Age 15
While some states allow younger workers, Woolworths typically sets their minimum hiring age at 15 for several practical reasons:
Consistency Across Australia: Having a standard minimum age simplifies hiring practices across all states and territories.
School Attendance: By age 15, most students have completed Year 10 and have more flexibility in their schedules.
Maturity and Responsibility: Fifteen-year-olds generally have the maturity needed for retail work, including customer service and cash handling.
Legal Compliance: Age 15 meets or exceeds minimum age requirements in all Australian jurisdictions, ensuring full compliance.
Work Readiness: By 15, most young people have developed the communication skills, reliability, and work ethic needed for retail.
Availability: Older students typically have more availability, including weekends and school holidays.
What Jobs Can You Do at Woolworths as a Young Worker?
Age 15-16: Entry-Level Positions
Checkout Operator: Scanning items, processing payments, providing customer service at registers.
Service Assistant: Restocking shelves, helping customers find products, maintaining store presentation.
Trolley Collector: Collecting and organizing shopping trolleys from car park.
Online Personal Shopper: Picking and packing online grocery orders for home delivery or pickup.
General Store Assistant: Various tasks including cleaning, organizing, and supporting different departments.
Age 16-17: Expanded Opportunities
All Age 15-16 positions, plus:
Night Fill Team Member: Restocking shelves during evening or overnight shifts (if permitted by state laws).
Produce Department: Preparing and displaying fresh fruit and vegetables.
Bakery Assistant: Assisting with baking, packaging, and displaying bakery products.
Deli Assistant: Preparing and serving deli products (may require additional training).
Age 18+: All Positions
All previous positions, plus:
Liquor Department: Selling alcohol at BWS or Woolworths Liquor (must be 18+).
Duty Manager: Supervising team members and managing store operations.
Department Manager: Managing specific departments like produce, deli, or grocery.
Specialist Roles: Butcher, baker, seafood specialist (with appropriate qualifications).
Pay Rates for Young Workers at Woolworths
Woolworths pays according to the General Retail Industry Award, which has age-based pay rates:
Junior Pay Rates (Percentage of Adult Rate)
Under 16 years: Approximately 45-50% of adult rate (~$11-12 per hour base rate)
16 years old: Approximately 50-60% of adult rate (~$12-14 per hour base rate)
17 years old: Approximately 60-70% of adult rate (~$14-16 per hour base rate)
18 years old: Approximately 70-80% of adult rate (~$16-18 per hour base rate)
19 years old: Approximately 80-90% of adult rate (~$18-20 per hour base rate)
20 years old: Approximately 90-97.5% of adult rate (~$20-22 per hour base rate)
21 years and over: Full adult rate (~$23-25 per hour base rate)
Note: These are approximate base rates. Actual pay includes:
- Penalty rates for weekends, evenings, and public holidays (time and a half to double time)
- Superannuation (11% of earnings)
- Annual leave loading (17.5% on leave)
- Regular pay increases based on experience and performance
Example Weekly Earnings
15-year-old working 10 hours per week:
- Weekday rate: ~$11/hour
- Saturday rate: ~$16.50/hour (time and a half)
- Sunday rate: ~$22/hour (double time)
- Average weekly earnings: $110-150 depending on shifts
17-year-old working 15 hours per week:
- Including weekend penalty rates
- Average weekly earnings: $200-280
Working Hours for Young Workers
During School Terms
15-17 years old:
- Typically 3-15 hours per week
- Usually after school (3:30 PM onwards) and weekends
- Cannot work during school hours
- Limited late-night shifts on school nights
18+ years old:
- More flexible hours available
- Can work during school hours if not attending
- Full availability including late nights
During School Holidays
15-17 years old:
- Can work more hours (20-30+ hours per week)
- Day shifts become available
- More flexible scheduling
- Great opportunity to earn more
18+ years old:
- Can work full-time hours (38 hours per week)
- All shifts available
Typical Shift Times
Weekday After-School Shifts: 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM
Weekend Shifts:
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
School Holiday Shifts:
- Full day shifts available
- Typically 6-8 hour shifts
- Morning, afternoon, or evening
Requirements to Work at Woolworths as a Young Worker
Essential Requirements
Age: Minimum 15 years old (or state minimum, whichever is higher)
Right to Work: Australian citizen, permanent resident, or valid work visa
Tax File Number (TFN): Required for payment processing (can apply online through ATO)
Bank Account: For direct deposit of wages
Availability: Flexible availability, especially weekends (crucial for retail)
School Attendance: If under school leaving age, must be attending school or have completed required years
Desirable Qualities
Customer Service Skills: Friendly, helpful, good communication
Reliability: Punctual, consistent attendance, responsible
Teamwork: Ability to work well with others
Flexibility: Willing to work various shifts including weekends
Positive Attitude: Enthusiastic, willing to learn, professional
No Experience Required
Woolworths does not require previous work experience for entry-level positions. They provide comprehensive training for all new team members, making it an excellent first job opportunity.
How to Apply for a Job at Woolworths as a Young Worker
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Confirm you meet the minimum age requirement and have the right to work in Australia.
Step 2: Visit Woolworths Careers Website
Go to careers.woolworthsgroup.com.au and search for positions in your area.
Step 3: Create an Account
Register with your email address and create a profile.
Step 4: Complete Application
- Fill out personal information
- Answer screening questions
- Upload resume (even if you have no experience, create a simple resume highlighting school achievements, volunteer work, and skills)
- Indicate your availability clearly
Step 5: Submit Application
Review everything carefully and submit. You’ll receive a confirmation email.
Step 6: Assessment (If Selected)
Some positions may require online assessments testing personality, work style, and situational judgment.
Step 7: Interview
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an interview (phone, video, or in-person).
Step 8: Job Offer
Successful candidates receive a job offer with start date and conditions.
Tips for Getting Hired at Woolworths as a Young Worker
- Emphasize Availability
Woolworths values flexibility, especially weekend availability. Make it clear you can work Saturdays and Sundays.
- Highlight Transferable Skills
Even without work experience, you have skills from school, sports, volunteering, or family responsibilities:
- Teamwork (group projects, sports teams)
- Customer service (volunteer work, helping at school events)
- Reliability (perfect attendance, meeting deadlines)
- Communication (presentations, leadership roles)
- Show Enthusiasm
Woolworths wants team members who are genuinely excited about the opportunity. Show enthusiasm in your application and interview.
- Be Professional
Even as a young applicant, professionalism matters:
- Dress appropriately for interview
- Arrive on time
- Speak clearly and confidently
- Follow up with thank-you message
- Apply to Multiple Stores
Don’t limit yourself to one location. Apply to several Woolworths stores in your area to increase your chances.
- Apply at the Right Time
Woolworths often hires more staff before busy periods:
- November-December (Christmas rush)
- January (post-Christmas sales, school holidays)
- March-April (Easter period)
- June-July (mid-year school holidays)
- Get a Referee
Have a teacher, coach, or community leader ready to provide a reference. Even without work experience, character references are valuable.
- Prepare for the Interview
Research common Woolworths interview questions and practice your answers. Be ready to discuss:
- Why you want to work at Woolworths
- Your availability
- How you handle challenges
- Examples of teamwork
Benefits of Working at Woolworths as a Young Worker
Skill Development
Customer Service: Learn to interact professionally with diverse customers.
Time Management: Balance work, school, and personal commitments.
Teamwork: Collaborate with colleagues to achieve common goals.
Problem-Solving: Handle challenges and find solutions independently.
Communication: Develop professional communication skills.
Financial Literacy: Manage your own income, understand taxes and superannuation.
Career Opportunities
Internal Promotion: Woolworths promotes from within. Many managers started as young checkout operators.
Training Programs: Access to retail training, leadership development, and specialized courses.
Transferable Experience: Retail experience is valuable for future employment in any industry.
References: Build professional references for future job applications.
Financial Benefits
Regular Income: Earn your own money for savings, expenses, or goals.
Penalty Rates: Higher pay for weekends and public holidays.
Superannuation: Start building retirement savings early (11% of earnings).
Employee Discounts: Discounts on Woolworths products and partner brands.
Flexible Working
School-Friendly: Schedules designed around school commitments.
Variety: Different shifts and tasks keep work interesting.
Social: Meet new people and make friends.
Work-Life Balance: Part-time hours allow time for study, hobbies, and social life.
Common Questions About Working at Woolworths as a Young Worker
Can I work at Woolworths if I’m 14?
Generally no. While some Australian states allow 14-year-olds to work, Woolworths’ standard minimum hiring age is 15 years old across all locations.
Do I need a resume if I have no experience?
Yes, you should create a resume even without work experience. Include:
- Personal details
- Education (school, year level, achievements)
- Skills (communication, teamwork, computer skills)
- Volunteer work or extracurricular activities
- Hobbies and interests
- References (teachers, coaches, community leaders)
How many hours can I work per week?
This depends on your age and whether you’re in school term or holidays:
- During school: Typically 3-15 hours per week
- School holidays: 20-30+ hours per week
- State laws may impose maximum hours for young workers
Can I work during school hours?
Generally no, unless you’ve completed Year 10 or reached your state’s minimum school leaving age (usually 15-16 years old).
Do I get paid less because I’m young?
Yes, junior rates apply under the General Retail Industry Award. Pay increases with age until you reach the full adult rate at age 21. However, you still earn penalty rates for weekends and public holidays.
What should I wear to a Woolworths interview?
Business casual is appropriate:
- Clean, pressed clothes (collared shirt or nice blouse with pants or skirt)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Neat, professional appearance
- Minimal jewelry and makeup
How long does the hiring process take?
Typically 2-4 weeks from application to job offer, though this can vary depending on the store’s needs and number of applicants.
Can I choose my shifts?
You’ll indicate your availability when applying, and the roster is created based on store needs and team member availability. As a new, young worker, you’ll have less choice initially, but as you gain experience and prove reliability, you’ll have more input.
Conclusion
Working at Woolworths is an excellent opportunity for young Australians to gain valuable work experience, earn money, and develop professional skills. With a minimum hiring age of generally 15 years old, comprehensive training provided, and flexible scheduling around school commitments, Woolworths is one of the best first-job options available.
If you meet the age requirements, have flexible availability (especially weekends), and are willing to learn, you have a strong chance of securing a position at Woolworths. The experience you gain will benefit you throughout your career, whether you stay in retail or move to other industries.
Start by checking your eligibility, preparing a simple resume highlighting your skills and qualities, and applying online to multiple Woolworths locations in your area. With preparation, enthusiasm, and professionalism, you’ll be well-positioned to start your career journey with one of Australia’s largest and most respected employers.
Good luck with your Woolworths application!
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