Fair Work resources to protect young worker rights
The rights of young workers will be better protected under a new partnership between the Fair Work Ombudsman and the Foundation for Young Australians.
There are six new videos featured on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s YouTube channel, which address issues commonly experienced by young workers.
These videos also provide tips for dealing with concerns in the workplace.
Acting Fair Work Ombudsman Kristen Hannah said young workers continue to be an area of concern for the agency.
“Young workers make up only 16% of the Australian workforce; however, they account for a quarter of all the requests for assistance we receive. This is disproportionately high,” Hannah said.
“We also know that young workers can be more vulnerable, as their limited workplace experience can result in a lack of awareness of their rights.
“This is why our agency is focused on equipping young workers with the knowledge and confidence they need to better understand their entitlements and provide them with information on how to resolve workplace issues.”
The Fair Work Ombudsman and the foundation worked together to explore current issues facing young people in the workplace.
These findings, combined with data from the Fair Work Ombudsman, informed the topics covered by the new videos, which are:
- Busting workplace myths
- Warning signs for young people in the workplace
- How to address being treated unfairly at work
- Unpaid work
- Tips for apprentices and trainees
- Tips to ensure a smooth transition to a new job
Hannah encouraged young workers to use the new resources and get in touch with the Fair Work Ombudsman if they need assistance with problems at work.
“Standing up for your rights may make you feel uncomfortable, but issues can often be sorted out early with the right support and resources,” she said.
“Often we can resolve problems quickly through early intervention, before the problem gets to a point where the employment relationship has ended.”
A range of specialised resources for young workers is available on the Fair Work Ombudsman website.
Employees and employers who have questions or concerns about their workplace rights and obligations can seek assistance through the My Account portal at www.fairwork.gov.au or by calling the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.
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