Employment agencies | Recruitment agencies | Youth Central

There are employment agencies in every industry, catering for almost every type of job available.

To find an employment agency, you can search online using the keywords ‘employment agencies’ and the industry, location or kind of work you're looking for.

You can also look for ads on job search websites that are placed by employment agencies. You can then go to the agency’s website to find out more about them and search through their other job listings.

Registering with an employment agency

Once you’ve found an employment agency you'd like to use, you can apply for the jobs you're interested in by filling in an online form and uploading your resume.

The agency may ask you to come in for an interview to see if you're the kind of employee they can find work for. They may also ask you to come in for an interview if they have a specific job vacancy they're trying to fill.

You should always approach agencies with the same level of professionalism and care that you would when approaching an employer. You need to make a good impression. Employment agencies need to be confident that:

  • you can do the kind of jobs they want employers to consider you for
  • you'll help them maintain a reputation for finding good employees.

If you're successfully placed into a job, you'll need to sign a contract with the agency.

What agencies can do for you

A good agency should approach your relationship with them as a partnership. Although they technically work for employers, you're vital to the service they provide.

It's important to develop a good relationship with the people at the agencies you work with. Always keep your promises and do what you say you'll do.

Employers often swap notes with agencies. If you do a good job and get good reports, the agency is more likely to give you more work.

Once you've established a relationship with an agency, be proactive. Keep in regular contact so they know when you’re available and looking for work.

You can also ask an agency for advice and feedback on things like your resume, job interviews and how employers are rating you.

 

Employment agencies and work rights

When you work for an employment agency, you have the same minimum entitlements as everyone else who does that job.

This means you should get the same pay and basic conditions that a person employed directly by the employer would get for the same job. It’s the employment agency’s responsibility to make sure this is happening.

If you have concerns about your pay or conditions, discuss it with your employment agency.

The employer you work for also has responsibilities for your health and safety at work, and for providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment.

If you have a problem with an employment agency or an employer, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94. Our what are your rights at work?  section for more information about your rights at work.

Employment agencies are for-profit companies

Don’t forget that employment agencies are there to make money. They may not always have your best interests at heart.

It’s alright to negotiate your rate of pay with the employment agency. You shouldn't necessarily believe everything they say about the hourly rate an employer is offering.

Do your research, know what you’re worth, and be prepared to stand your ground. Our how to negotiate for what you want at work page has more tips and advice about asking for what you want.