Thinking about how to earn your first few dollars as a 14-year-old in Australia? It might seem a bit tricky to find paid work at that age, but there are actually some cool opportunities out there that go beyond the usual after-school jobs. Whether you’re saving up for something special, want to get a head start on learning new skills, or just like the idea of having your own cash, finding the right gig can be a great move. This article looks at some of the top jobs for 14 year olds to make money, drawing on what’s out there in Australia.
Key Takeaways
- Many online platforms and freelance sites are accessible to teens aged 13 and over, often requiring parental consent for sign-ups.
- Leveraging existing skills in areas like writing, coding, or design can open doors to well-paying freelance jobs.
- Tutoring younger students or those needing help in specific subjects is a flexible way for academically strong teens to earn money.
- Content creation, whether through writing, video, or design, allows teens to showcase creativity and potentially earn income from projects.
- While not always the highest paying, roles like barista or dog grooming assistant can offer valuable experience and fit around school commitments.
1. Model
So, you’ve got a look that turns heads? Modelling might be your ticket to earning some cash. It’s not just about striking a pose; it’s about bringing a brand’s vision to life. You could be shooting for fashion magazines, online stores, or even TV commercials.
It’s a gig that can be surprisingly well-paid, especially if you’re starting out and get a good hourly rate. While some modelling jobs might not need specific skills, you’ll definitely need to be comfortable in front of a camera and able to take direction from photographers and stylists.
Here’s a bit of what you might be doing:
- Photo Shoots: This is the bread and butter. You’ll be posing for pictures for all sorts of things – clothes, products, you name it.
- Runway Shows: If you’ve got the walk, you might get to strut your stuff on a catwalk for designers or stores.
- Casting Calls: You’ll need to go to auditions to try and land specific jobs. It’s a bit like trying out for a play.
- Promotional Events: Sometimes, you’ll be the face of a brand at an event, chatting with people and looking the part.
It can be a bit of a hustle, showing up on time for everything is super important. You’ll also need to be able to communicate well and just generally be a good sport about it all.
The pay can really vary. Some gigs might pay around $55 an hour, but that’s not a guarantee. It depends a lot on the type of job, how experienced you are, and who you’re working for. It’s worth looking into agencies that can help you find work and negotiate rates.
It’s not all glamour, though. You might be on your feet for ages, and sometimes the pressure can be on to get the perfect shot. But hey, if you enjoy being in the spotlight and have the right look, it could be a fun way to make some money and maybe even get your foot in the door for other cool opportunities down the track.
2. Programmer
If you’re someone who enjoys solving puzzles and figuring out how things work, then programming might be your jam. It’s basically like giving instructions to a computer to make it do stuff, like build websites or create apps. You can actually get paid to write these instructions! It sounds pretty cool, and the best part is you can often do it from your own room, which means no commuting in the Aussie heat.
Learning to code isn’t just about making money now; it’s a skill that’s super useful for all sorts of jobs later on. Think of it as learning a new language, but instead of talking to people, you’re talking to machines. There are heaps of free resources online to get you started, like Codecademy or freeCodeCamp. You don’t need a fancy degree to start, just a computer and a willingness to learn.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might be doing:
- Writing code for websites or simple apps.
- Finding and fixing mistakes in existing code (this is called debugging).
- Working with others to make sure the program works the way it should.
- Learning new coding languages as you go.
The earning potential for programming can be quite good, even for younger folks. While exact rates vary a lot depending on the project and your skill level, you could be looking at earning anywhere from $30 to $50 an hour, especially if you’re doing freelance work. It’s definitely a field where your effort and ability can pay off.
To get started, you’ll want to get familiar with some common programming languages. Python is often recommended for beginners because it’s easier to read. JavaScript is great for making websites interactive. Don’t worry if it seems a bit much at first; everyone starts somewhere. Just focus on learning one thing at a time.
3. Tutor
If you’re good at a particular school subject and enjoy helping others figure things out, tutoring could be a great gig for you. It’s pretty flexible, so you can usually fit it in around your classes and other commitments. Plus, teaching someone else can actually help you understand the material even better yourself.
Think about what you excel at. Are you a whiz at maths? Do you ace English essays? Maybe science is your thing. Whatever it is, there are likely students who could use a hand.
Here’s a bit of what tutoring involves:
- Helping students with their homework or getting ready for tests.
- Coming up with simple ways to explain tricky topics.
- Chatting with students one-on-one or in small groups.
- Keeping track of how they’re doing and cheering them on.
You can set your own rates, but professional tutors often earn around $37 an hour, depending on what you’re teaching and how much experience you have. It’s a good idea to check out what others are charging in your area. You might find some primary school tutoring job openings on sites like SEEK, which lists vacancies across Australia.
Being a tutor means you’re not just earning money; you’re also building up skills in communication, patience, and organisation. It’s a really rewarding way to spend your time if you enjoy seeing someone else have that ‘aha!’ moment.
4. Content Creator
If you’ve got a creative streak and love making things, becoming a content creator could be a great way to earn some cash. This job is all about making interesting stuff for websites, blogs, or social media. Think writing articles, designing graphics, or even making short videos. It’s super flexible, which is awesome when you’ve got school and other stuff going on.
The key is to build a portfolio of your work to show people what you can do. This could be anything from blog posts you’ve written to cool graphics you’ve designed. The more you show off, the easier it will be to find people who want to hire you.
Here’s a bit of what goes into it:
- Making Stuff: This means writing, designing, or filming content that people will want to see or read.
- Researching: You’ll need to keep up with what’s popular and what people are talking about.
- Working with Others: Sometimes you’ll work with brands or clients to create content that fits what they need.
- Polishing: You’ll also need to check your work for mistakes and make sure it’s clear and easy to understand.
Earning potential can vary a lot. You might get paid per project, per hour, or even a regular amount each week if you’re on a retainer. Some creators can make around $32 an hour, but it really depends on the job and who you’re working for. It’s a good idea to check out places like SEEK for content creation jobs to get an idea of what’s out there.
You’ll need to be good at writing and talking to people. Being creative and coming up with fresh ideas is a big plus. Plus, knowing how to use different computer programs for making content and paying attention to the little details will help you do a really good job.
5. Barista
Working as a barista is a pretty cool gig for teens wanting to earn decent money while being in a social spot. You’ll pick up some handy skills here, like how to chat with customers, manage your time when things get busy, and work with a team. Plus, you’ll get good at handling cash and using those fancy coffee machines. The hours are usually pretty flexible, so it’s easy to fit around school.
The main thing is making sure customers leave happy with their drinks and their experience.
Here’s a bit of what you’ll be doing:
- Whipping up all sorts of coffees, teas, and other drinks.
- Getting to know how to use and look after coffee machines and grinders.
- Making sure customers feel welcome and looked after.
- Keeping the place tidy and stocked up.
It’s not just about making coffee, though. You’ll learn a lot about how a cafe runs, which could be a good starting point if you’re thinking about hospitality or even managing a business down the track. Pay can be around $30 to $35 an hour, and sometimes you might get tips or extra pay for working weekends.
You’ll need to be good at talking to people, stay calm when it’s super busy, and have a bit of know-how about different coffee types. Being organised helps too, especially when you’re trying to keep track of orders and stock.
It’s a great way to get your foot in the door and start earning some cash while learning valuable stuff.
6. Dog Groomer
Got a soft spot for furry friends? Being a dog groomer or even an assistant groomer could be a great gig for you. It’s a job that really suits teens who love animals and don’t mind getting a bit hands-on. You’ll learn all sorts of things, like how to handle different dog breeds, how to give them a good bath and blow-dry, and even how to trim their fur and nails properly. Plus, you get to make sure the pups are calm and happy while you’re working on them.
This job is perfect for developing patience and responsibility.
Here’s a bit of what you might be doing:
- Bathing, brushing, and drying dogs of all shapes and sizes.
- Trimming fur, clipping nails, and keeping ears clean.
- Making sure the dogs feel safe and relaxed during their pampering session.
- Chatting with the owners to let them know how their pet did.
- Keeping your tools and workspace spick and span.
To do well, you’ll need to be good with animals, especially if they’re a bit nervous. Being patient is a big plus, and you’ve got to be able to talk to people – the dog owners, that is. A keen eye for detail helps too, so you don’t miss anything when you’re grooming. You can often find opportunities for dog groomer jobs on sites like SEEK, with plenty of positions available across Australia.
Working with animals can be really rewarding. You get to help keep pets looking and feeling their best, and that’s a pretty cool feeling. It’s also a good way to learn about animal care and build up your confidence.
Pay can vary, but you might expect to earn somewhere between $25 to $35 an hour, depending on the services you provide. If you’re assisting, it might be a bit less, but it’s still a solid way to earn some cash while doing something you enjoy.
7. Nanny
If you’re good with kids and enjoy spending time with them, being a nanny could be a really good gig. It’s not just about watching them, though; it’s about actively caring for them, which can be super rewarding. Plus, the hours are usually pretty flexible, so you can totally work around your school schedule. You’ll learn heaps about being responsible, managing your time, and even how to sort out little problems that pop up.
Being a nanny means you’re trusted with someone’s most precious people, so reliability is key.
What you’ll actually be doing day-to-day can change a lot depending on the family, but generally, you’ll be:
- Looking after the kids – this includes things like making sure they eat, helping them get dressed, and keeping them safe.
- Planning fun stuff for them to do, like games or outings that are right for their age.
- Giving them a hand with their homework and school projects.
- Chatting with the parents about how things are going with their kids.
As for pay, it can vary a fair bit. A professional nanny might get around $31 an hour, but when you’re starting out as a teen, you might need to be a bit more competitive with your rates. Some nannies also get to charge a bit extra for travel costs if they’re going to different places with the kids.
You’ll need to be patient and have a kind way about you. Being able to talk clearly with both the kids and their parents is a big plus. Juggling different tasks and keeping track of time is also important, and knowing some basic first aid is always a good idea.
To get started, it’s a good idea to meet the family and kids beforehand, maybe in a public place. Make sure you have emergency contact details handy, and always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Trust your gut feeling – if a situation feels off, it’s okay to say no or leave.
8. Online Surveys
So, you’re looking to make a bit of pocket money without leaving the house? Online surveys might be just the ticket. It’s not exactly going to make you rich overnight, but it’s a pretty straightforward way to earn a few dollars here and there. Basically, companies are always keen to know what people think, especially younger folks, about their products or services. They’ll pay you a small amount for your opinions.
The best part is you can do it anytime, anywhere, as long as you’ve got an internet connection. It’s super flexible, which is great when you’ve got school and other stuff going on.
Here’s a bit of a rundown on how it generally works:
- Sign Up: You’ll need to join a survey website. There are heaps of them out there, so do a bit of searching to find ones that seem legit. You’ll usually need to create a profile with some basic info about yourself.
- Find Surveys: Once you’re in, you’ll see a list of available surveys. They’ll often tell you how long they’re expected to take and how much you’ll get paid.
- Take Surveys: Click on a survey you’re interested in and answer the questions honestly. Try not to rush through them, as some sites might disqualify you if you go too fast or give silly answers.
- Get Paid: Once you’ve completed a survey, you’ll earn points or a small amount of cash. Most sites have a minimum payout amount, so you’ll need to reach that before you can cash out. This is usually done via PayPal or gift cards.
It’s worth noting that not every survey will be a perfect fit for you. Sometimes you’ll start a survey and get screened out because you don’t meet the specific demographic they’re looking for. It can be a bit frustrating, but it happens.
While the pay per survey is usually quite low, consistency is key. If you dedicate a bit of time each week, those small amounts can add up over time. Just be patient and don’t expect to get rich quick.
Some popular survey sites you might want to check out include Swagbucks, Toluna, and Ipsos i-Say. Always do your own research to make sure a site is reputable before you start sharing your information.
9. Freelance Writer
Got a way with words? You might be able to make some cash as a freelance writer. This means you write stuff for people or companies who need it, like blog posts, website content, or even social media updates. It’s pretty flexible, so you can usually fit it around school and other commitments.
You’ll need to be good at writing clearly and making your words interesting to read. Think about what kind of writing you enjoy. Are you good at explaining things simply? Do you have a knack for telling stories? Whatever it is, try to build up a few examples of your writing to show people.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might do:
- Researching topics to make sure your writing is accurate.
- Writing articles, blog posts, or other content based on what the client needs.
- Editing your work to fix any mistakes and make it flow well.
- Talking to clients to understand what they’re looking for.
It can be a bit tricky to get started, but there are websites out there where you can find gigs. You might need to set up a profile and show off your best writing samples. Some platforms might even let you bid on jobs.
Remember, even though you’re writing for someone else, your own voice and style are important. Try to find clients whose projects genuinely interest you. It makes the work a lot more enjoyable and usually leads to better results for everyone involved.
Pay can vary a lot. Some jobs might pay a set amount per article, while others might pay by the hour. It really depends on the client and the complexity of the writing task. But if you’re a decent writer, it’s a solid way to earn some money from home.
10. Data Entry
If you’re someone who’s pretty organised and doesn’t mind repetitive tasks, data entry could be a good gig for you. Basically, you’re just typing information into computer systems or spreadsheets. It’s not the most exciting job in the world, but it’s a solid way to earn some cash, especially if you’re looking for something flexible that you can do from home. Accuracy is key in this role, so paying attention to detail is a must.
Getting started usually involves finding platforms that connect people with these kinds of jobs. You might need to do a quick test to show you can type accurately and quickly. Some places might even offer training, but often, they just want someone reliable.
Here’s a bit of what you might be doing:
- Inputting customer details into a database.
- Transcribing audio files into written text.
- Updating inventory records for a business.
- Organising and sorting digital files.
It’s a job that doesn’t require a lot of fancy qualifications, which is great when you’re just starting out. You can often find these kinds of roles on freelancing websites, which have a huge number of jobs available. Just remember to check the age requirements for any platform you sign up for, as some might have restrictions.
Working from home means you can set your own hours, which is a big plus when you’ve got school or other commitments. Just make sure you have a quiet space to work and a reliable internet connection.
Many companies are looking for help with their data, so there are opportunities out there. You can look for online data entry jobs on the world’s largest freelancing marketplace to get started.
So, What’s Next?
Alright, so you’ve seen there are heaps of ways for 14-year-olds to start earning some cash here in Australia, way beyond just stacking shelves or slinging coffees. Whether you’re a whiz with computers, love hanging out with kids, or have a creative streak a mile wide, there’s likely a gig out there for you. Getting that first job isn’t just about the money, though that’s pretty sweet. It’s about learning new stuff, figuring out what you’re good at, and getting a taste of being independent. So, don’t just sit there – start looking into these options. You might surprise yourself with what you can do and how much you can earn. Good luck out there!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good jobs for 14-year-olds in Australia besides the usual cafe or shop work?
There are heaps of cool jobs you can do! Think about being a tutor for younger kids, a content creator making videos or writing, or even a dog groomer if you love animals. Some teens even get into modelling or data entry online. These jobs can be more interesting and often pay better than typical part-time roles.
Can I really make money from coding or writing online?
Absolutely! If you’re good with computers and like solving puzzles, coding jobs can pay really well. And if you enjoy writing, freelance writing or creating content for websites and social media are great ways to earn cash. Many companies are looking for young people with these skills.
How much can a 14-year-old expect to earn?
It really depends on the job! Tutoring might get you around $30-$40 an hour, while coding could be even more. Modelling rates can vary a lot. Even online surveys or data entry can add up over time. The key is finding something you’re good at and that people need.
What skills do I need to get these jobs?
For many of these jobs, you’ll need good communication skills and be reliable. If you want to be a tutor, you’ll need to be strong in that subject. For coding, you’ll need to learn specific languages. Being creative is key for content creation, and patience is a must for dog grooming or nannying.
Are there any online jobs that are safe for teens?
Yes, but you always need to be careful online. Jobs like online surveys or data entry can be done from home. It’s a good idea to have your parents help you find reputable websites. For any job, especially those involving meeting people, always let a trusted adult know where you’re going and who you’re meeting.
How can I find these jobs if they aren’t advertised at the local shops?
You can look on websites like SEEK, but also try platforms like Fiverr or Upwork for freelance work, though some might need parental permission. Networking is also super important – tell your friends, family, and teachers what you’re looking for. Sometimes, your school might have opportunities too!
