Melbourne is the thriving capital of Victoria- regarded worldwide as a melting pot of culture and cuisine, and famous for its diverse business and leisure opportunities. The large number of businesses, both large and small, makes it an ideal city to hold down a part time job. So what do you need to know to have a part time job in Melbourne?
First, the legal age from which you can have a job is 14 and 9 months in Victoria, and most employers will require proof of age. You will need an Australian tax file number, a birth certificate or passport for proof of identity, and it is wise to set up a superannuation fund. Victoria has many different unions, and if you are working in a part time job in Melbourne then you are eligible to join a union.
There are opportunities for all kinds of work in Melbourne. The most popular part-time and casual jobs include but are not limited to, hospitality, retail, courier and truck driving, secretarial work, cleaning and labourer work. Within these industries is a demand for all age groups and skills, and they are particularly good for students and people wanting to work part-time or casual with a decent wage. There are also superannuation funds and unions for each of these industries.
Working part-time in Melbourne is quite manageable if you tap into the resources around you. See whether you can organise a work contract that both you and your employer agree on, as that will give you greater job security in terms of hours, wage, paid and unpaid breaks, and annual leave. Speak to your union of choice to see what they can offer members. Look into taking public transport to and from your workplace if you don’t have your own transport, and find out if you are eligible to travel on a concession (which will save you money).
There are also many job-seeking agencies around Victoria, many of which can be accessed by people who are on a Centrelink Job-Seeker payment, and they can help you find suitable work and prepare a resume and cover letter for those you want to apply for.
If you research the work you want to do, and use the internet, job-seeker agencies, your local newspaper and word of mouth, then you are sure to find a job that interests you and that you are suitable for. Access what support and resources you can- whether it’s public transport or a union, and most of all, make sure you keep the balance between work and play! After all, it’s part-time work, meaning you have part-time leisure too!