Young People in an Economic Downturn

The Longitudinal Surveys of Australian Youth (LSAY) have prepared a new briefing paper titled ‘Young people in an economic downturn.’ The paper was released on April 21 and looks at how economic downturns over the last 20 years have affected young people, their work and study intentions.

Summary of findings

• As new entrants to the labour market, young people are generally the hardest hit in times of economic downturn.
• In the most recent downturn, young people experienced the greatest losses in full-time jobs, including apprenticeships.
• They were also hit hardest by the increase in unemployment.
• Many young people focussed on study, to increase their chances of employment.

Further information on the LSAY briefing paper ‘Young people in an economic downturn’ is available on the LSAY website.