Alleged child labour breaches in Mount Martha

Wage Inspectorate Victoria has filed charges in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria against Sidna Pty Ltd (trading as Volpino), alleging the business contravened the Child Employment Act 2003.

The restaurant allegedly employed children under the age of 15 without a licence, failed to ensure the children were supervised at all times by an adult who has a current Working with Children Clearance, and breached various conditions attached to their employment including performing work beyond the maximum permitted hours during and outside the school term, and performing work after 9 pm.

The business also allegedly failed to provide rest breaks of at least 30 minutes after 3 hours worked, as well as the mandatory 12-hour break between shifts.

The maximum penalties for these offences are in excess of:

• $230,000 for employment without a licence and failing to ensure a child is supervised at all times by an adult who has a current Working with Children Clearance
• $47,000 for breaching the general conditions of employment including the hours worked and rest breaks.

The matter has been listed for mention at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 25 September 2025.

The Wage Inspectorate will make no further comment while the matter is before the court.

Background

Victoria’s child employment laws require employers of children under 15 to have a child employment licence before any work takes place, and to comply with Child Safe Standards.

Workers under 15 must be supervised by someone who holds a valid Victorian Working with Children Clearance (unless exempt).

Child employment laws restrict when businesses can employ children and how long they can work:

• during a school term, children can be employed for a maximum of 3 hours a day and 12 hours per week and cannot work during school hours
• during school holidays, children can be employed up to 6 hours a day and 30 hours a week
• children can only work between 6am and 9pm.

Children must also receive a 30-minute rest break after every 3 hours work and have at least 12 hours break between shifts.

For more information Victoria’s child employment laws visit the Wage Inspectorate’s website at wageinspectorate.vic.gov.au or call 1800 287 287.