Starting a job

In this activity, students develop an understanding of the steps they need to take when they start a job and why these steps are important. They apply this knowledge by completing an application for a tax file number (TFN) using a simulated online tool and other necessary forms for a hypothetical job.

Content descriptions

Identify the importance of rights and responsibilities for employers and workers (ACWSCL019)

Teacher resources

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Getting a Tax File Number: Tim’s tale

Starting a job

Student learning resources

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Starting a job

TFN application (simulated online application)

ATO online services simulator

Completing a TFN declaration

Standard choice form

Other resources you might like

Suggested activity sequence

This sequence is intended as a framework to be modified and adapted by teachers to suit the needs of a class group. This activity may not be suitable for students who already have a job.

1. Elicit students’ prior knowledge about starting a job.Get them to write all they know on an entry card or in their notebooks.
2. Play:Getting a Tax File Number: Tim’s tale (long version). This video explains why it is important to have a TFN before you start a job.
3. Discuss the implications of not having a tax file number.
4. Display the visualiser and work through each slide.
5. Students complete the worksheet which will require them to complete a:
   • TFN application (simulated online application)
   • TFN declaration (simulated online)
   • Standard choice form
     • Note: If there are students in the class who already have a job, pair them with students who don’t so they can act as a buddy.
6. When students have completed their forms, as a class, discuss the tax responsibilities students have when they enter the workforce.
7. Invite students to reflect on what they have learned, through using exit cards or by completing a reflection pyramid.

Applying for a tax file number online

Your students can apply for a TFN online for free using myGovID. Using a myGovID to apply for a TFN online is simple and students will benefit by:

• setting up their myGovID once and being able to reuse it
• creating a myGov account
• automatically linking to ATO online services, and
• receiving their tax file number in real time.

To find out more visit:

• Apply for a tax file number online
• Setting up a Strong myGovID

Notes for teaching students offline and to diverse audiences

Teachers can use additional ATO resources and services to support students who don’t have access to information technology hardware, or the internet, or who are members of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.

Tax file number application and declaration forms

If your students are unable to apply online using myGovID or attend a tax file number application interview at a participating Australia Post retail outlet or Services Australia Centre, they may need to complete one of the following paper forms:

• Tax file number–application or enquiry for individuals (NAT 1432)
• Tax file number declaration (NAT 3092)

You can get a copy of these forms by either:

• ordering online
• phoning 1300 720 092 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can get a copy of a paper Tax file number – application for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (NAT 1589) form by either:

• ordering online
• contacting the ATO Indigenous helpline 13 10 30.

For more information on services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people visit: ato.gov.au/general/Aboriginal-and-Torres-Strait-Islander-people

Culturally and linguistically diverse audiences

The ATO has information in languages other than English to help people from non-English speaking backgrounds understand tax and superannuation in Australia and offers aTranslating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50.

Useful prior learning