Australia’s young generation faces unique workforce contradictions: more education but less security, a skills gap despite higher qualifications, and major mismatches between expectations and workplace realities. Businesses and policymakers risk missing the opportunities and warning signs if youth perspectives aren’t directly addressed. deloitte+4
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YOUNGER, SMARTER, LESS SECURE
Young Australians are more qualified than ever, with 79% of millennials holding non-school qualifications vs 48% of baby boomers, but financial security is declining: youth wages grew 7% slower than the all-age average since 2000, with real weekly earnings falling by 2% since 2020. Over 7.6% now juggle multiple jobs—the highest on record.finance.yahoo+2 -
EDUCATION-RICH, SKILLS-SHORT
Degree attainment has surged, but vocational qualifications have dropped (from 40% to 33%). This leaves persistent gaps in sectors like aged care and construction. Employers increasingly value practical skills and career changers, but pathways remain rigid, hindering both retraining and talent mobility. accountingtimes+2 -
FUTURE WORKFORCE, IGNORED EXPECTATIONS
Young people value work-life balance and flexible work above salary—1 in 5 Gen Z say it’s the top priority. Yet, rising property and rental costs push them further from jobs, intensifying the challenge of combining work and life. Only 7.6% of parliament is under 40, and just 1 in 3 young Australians trust government leadership. Two-thirds working post-school are in part-time or underemployment, wanting more hours or growth prospects. itbrief+2
▢ Support hybrid and flexible work arrangements to match youth expectations
▢ Value vocational credentials and create new, flexible career pathways
▢ Offer stable jobs and transparent career growth to compete for emerging talent
▢ Embed youth perspectives in policy and business planning
