First weeks set the tone. Be reliable, learn fast, and communicate clearly. Gippsland employers value initiative and steady effort.
Paperwork you’ll likely need
- Tax File Number (TFN) details
- Superannuation fund choice form or fund details
- Bank account name, BSB, and number
- Emergency contact
- Proof of right to work (e.g., passport, birth certificate, visa)
- Licences or checks required for the role (e.g., WWCC, Police Check, RSA)
- Any tickets or certificates listed in the job ad
Keep digital copies in one folder. Use clear filenames.
Day 1 checklist
- Arrive 10 minutes early
- Bring ID, licences, and bank details
- Ask who you report to and how to request help
- Confirm roster, breaks, and uniform/PPE
- Note safety procedures and first aid contacts
- Ask how to clock in/out and where payslips are sent
Safety and onboarding
- Complete the site induction and read the SWMS/Policies
- Learn incident reporting steps
- Use PPE as instructed
- Ask before operating any equipment you haven’t been trained on
How to learn fast
- Keep a small notebook or phone notes
- Write task steps as checklists
- Confirm priorities: “If I get two tasks at once, which comes first?”
- Observe how the best person does the task, then mirror it
- Ask for quick feedback at the end of a shift: “One thing to improve?”
Communication basics
- Use names, be polite, keep messages short
- If you’ll be late or sick, notify early with facts and ETA
- Repeat back instructions for clarity
- Raise issues with solutions when possible
Deliver small wins early
- Clean a workspace, restock, or fix a known annoyance
- Learn one system deeply (POS, job app, spreadsheet) and help others
- Close the loop on tasks the same day
Probation and reviews
Most roles start with a probation period. Treat it as a trial for both sides.
- Know your key targets for the first month
- Track what you’ve completed each week
- Ask for a 10-minute check-in at week 2 and week 4
- If something isn’t working, raise it early and suggest a fix
30-60-90 day plan
Days 1–30: Learn and stabilise
- Master core tasks and safety routines
- Build relationships with your immediate team
- Record questions and answers
Days 31–60: Improve and support
- Take ownership of a small area or process
- Reduce errors and speed up routine work
- Share one improvement with the team
Days 61–90: Add value
- Train or buddy a newcomer on one task
- Document a checklist or quick guide
- Ask about longer-term goals you can support
Rosters, pay, and records
- Confirm pay cycle and payslip access
- Check your details are correct on the first payslip
- Keep a simple log of hours, breaks, and overtime you work
- Know who approves timesheets and by when
- Store copies of certificates and any new training
Handling challenges
- If you make a mistake: own it, fix it, prevent it
- If unclear: ask, don’t guess
- If workload clashes: confirm priority with your manager
- If conflict arises: stay calm, stick to facts, escalate if needed
Local tips
- Transport: plan for traffic, school times, and coastal weather
- Community: local references and club links help you settle in
- Reliability: consistent start times matter more than big promises