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Dramatic or musical performances

It is lawful to employ a child of any age, if the child is engaged to perform in:

  1. a dramatic performance;
  2. a musical performance;
  3. in the making of an advertisement; or
  4. another form of entertainment.

It is a criminal offence, carrying a penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment, for an employer to employ a child to perform in an indecent, obscene or pornographic manner where participating in an entertainment or exhibition or in the making of an advertisement.   

Performing in an indecent, obscene or pornographic manner includes the child:

  1. engaging in activity of sexual nature;
  2. being in the presence of another person who is engaged in an activity of a sexual nature;
  3. being required to pose or move in a manner calculated to give prominence to sexual organs.  

For a comprehensive overview of all of the provisions relating to children in employment, view the New Employment of Children Laws brochure or contact Wageline on 1300 655 266