Youth Employment Study: Survey Findings

In 2020, the YES study surveyed young Australians about their work experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic as it unfolded.

The report provides an analysis of questions related to contemporary economic and social issues in Australia. It includes experiences of job hunting, employment programs, previous work experiences, mental health, disability and experiences of financial and housing stress during COVID-19.

The report makes a a series of recommendations to further support young Australians through the COVID-19 economic recovery phase.

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What is YES about?

The Youth Employment Study (YES) is the first study to do surveys with a large group of young people who are looking for work and might be accessing Australian employment programs. YES aims to work out what helps young people get jobs and stay in jobs that they enjoy.

Employment is recognised as vitally important in the development of good health and is fundamentally linked to a person’s physical and mental health through factors such as financial security, social support and status, and personal growth and self-esteem. Young people are at greater risk of experiencing other adverse work circumstances, such as job strain (high job demands but low job control), unwanted sexual advances, and workplace bullying. Emerging adulthood (from adolescence  to their 30s) is increasingly recognised as a life stage that is full of individual, social and economic change, particularly as young people leave education and move into employment. Because of all of these reasons, it is really important to look into what makes a successful transition into employment for young people.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic impact of this crisis, it is now more important than ever to learn more about how we can support young people into jobs.

YES is based in the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health at the University of Melbourne.

YES Website