The Child Employment Regulation 2016 (the Regulation) is subordinate legislation made under the Child Employment Act 2006 (the Act). The Regulation includes provisions authorised by the Act that ensure work performed by children does not interfere with their compulsory schooling (up to the age of 16 years or completion of year 10) and by preventing children performing work that may be harmful to their health or safety or physical, mental, moral or social development.
As the Regulation is subordinate to the Act, its review is limited to the sections contained within the Regulation. The Regulation cannot change provisions, such as purpose and meanings, provided in the Act.
The Regulation is due to expire on the 31 August 2026. Preliminary consultation indicates that the Regulation is still required and is performing as intended to protect working children.
Have your say
The public consultation period for the consultation paper (PDF, 749KB) relating to the review of the Child Employment Regulation 2016, is now open.
Written submissions are encouraged from all interested parties. Submissions will not be made publicly available.
Please send your response to the consultation paper via email to irpolicy@oir.qld.gov.au.
Submissions can be made until the consultation close date, Friday 20 March 2026.