Aussie Childcare Network Forum

Posted: **Fri Jan 27, 2023 12:11 pm**

Hi everyone,

I am new here, thanks for creating this Forum.
I have completed my Cert III and looking for casual jobs.
There have been few opportunities around and was excited to start my new career. However, all places need two reference letters which is understandable.
The problem now is that the Child care centre where I had my Placement, is reluctant to provide a reference letter about my performance during the 3 months I worked there. I was so disappointed and surprised on their response to me that they do not provide reference letter to Volunteers or students!!!!
Is it their duties to provide such letter? How can I push them to provide me a reference letter? Is not part of the agreement with the SA government and getting a licence to run this business to help in reducing the unemployment Rate? Is their any ACT or legislation I can refer to?

Thanks and I hope your experience can help me.

Ayah

Posted: **Tue Sep 15, 2026 4:03 pm**

Nah, centres aren’t legally required to hand out reference letters to students or volunteers... it’s more of a courtesy thing than a duty. Some services just have a blanket policy of “no refs for placements,” which is frustrating but not against the rules. What you *can* do is ask for a **statement of service** (basically proof you did your hours there) or get your supervisor to sign off on a **placement report**. Those documents still show future employers you’ve got hands‑on experience. For job apps, you can also use personal/character refs (like a teacher, mentor, or community leader) alongside your Cert III transcript.

,
Lorina

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