Trial work

Most job offers are made after an interview.

 

When offered a job you may be asked to work for a trial or probation period. This is so that you and your employer can see if you can do the job and that you get along.

 

Your employer must tell you how long the probation or trial period will be (it can only be for a maximum of three months). 

 

You must be paid for any training your employer requires you to do and they must pay for the cost of the training course and you must receive payment for any work you do.

 

There is no such thing as 'unpaid trial work'. It is illegal for your employer not to pay you.

 

Let OIR know on 131 628 if this happens to you.

 

Work experience or volunteer work

 

Unpaid work is illegal, but should not be confused with unpaid school work experience programs.   These are usually through a registered educational training organisation - like a school, TAFE or university and are legal.

 

It is also possible to work as a volunteer for an organisation, such as a charity, and not be paid for the work you do.