Would you work for you?

It's an employer's responsibility to protect their young workers.

Young workers have higher injury rates than other worker age groups

Young Workers (aged 15-24 years old) and apprentices are often one of the most vulnerable cohorts in workplaces. They have the highest chance of being injured in the first six months of starting a new job, due to their lack of experience and being new to the role.

As an employer you are responsible for ensuring that your young workers receive the induction, training and information they need to work safely.

Know your obligations

Young workers bring a range of benefits to workplaces, including innovation, new skills and future talent. Young workers are also more likely to be injured because they are often new to a job and may be inexperienced. They often look to peers to reassure them and are less likely to ask questions for fear of negative consequences.

Would you work for you? | Safety at work

Would you work for you? | Working at heights

Creating a culture that protects young workers

When young workers know that health and safety is important in the workplace, they are more likely to follow safety procedures, raise issues and promote a culture that keeps everyone safe. Young workers often look to leaders and co-workers to better understand workplace health and safety culture. The supporting young workers tip cards are a guide to help you develop and maintain a safe workplace for young workers.

Talking to young workers about health and safety

Resources for employers

WorkSafe Advisory

WorkSafe's advisory service is available between 7:30am and 6:30pm Monday to Friday. If you need more support, you can also contact WorkSafe using the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) or the National Relay Service.

1800 136 089 More contact options

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