Search Results: first impression on people

I've just went to an interview at a japanese restauruant yesterday. The Asian owner offered me $12, And it's interesting that the manager actually hesitated for a while before he offerd the $12 and said I can say how much i want to be paid first. I accepted the $12 because i didn't want to give him a bad impression.
(People don't need to pay tips in Australia! and the $12 includes tax!)
But when i got home, my dad said, 'I should've told you before you go. Asian managers will try to pay as low as they can and you don't need to take it seriously. You should've ask for a higher one or just keep looking for another job. " I didn't know that cuz I don't have much work experience. XD

I'm 19 year old, and using a wage calculator provided by the australian goverment, I found out that I should be paid $18 an hour for a casual job in the restauruant. Should I keep looking for other jobs and quit it after
Reason letting me stay:
1. I haven't started working yet, but the manager and other staff seem pretty nice and I love japanese food!
2. The restauruant is walking distance to me house.

OK I'm so this upcoming school year to save up money for a better place to stay me and my family are going to be homeless. We've done it before no biggie but this year you know how people usually get new shoes and school uniforms and get their hair done and get school supplies. This year we aren't getting jack. And my school clothes from last year. let's just say I'm a messy eater and holes in pants aren't part of dress code. School starts on Monday Im going to be a sophomore. People judge first impression is everything. What do I do?