Australian young people have fared poorly during the pandemic and will continue to do so. “Young people will struggle with the side effects of the COVID-19 recession on the jobs market for years despite the nation’s rapid fall in unemployment.”
That’s the summary of new research by e61 which “found young workers were less likely to transition to employment during COVID-19, partly due to the closure of sectors such as hospitality, the arts and recreational services. Despite the recovery in the jobs market over recent months, the number of young people out of work for more than two years has not changed. COVID-19 also caused an increase in the number of students not completing study courses, with people from disadvantaged backgrounds the most likely to drop out.”
The Community Colleges Australia (CCA) September Sydney conference will address this pressing issue head-on with a series of presentations that highlight the role and capacity of not-for-profit (for purpose) organisations in developing the potential of young people and maximising their success in employment.
Lex Nadine Lutherborrow (CEO) and John Martin (College Principal) from Youth Off The Streets (YOTS) will highlight the innovative YOTS schools and other programs has implemented. Kira Clarke and Elle McLachlan from the Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL) will describe the BSL National Youth Employment body and present a workshop that highlights case studies of a systemic change approach to community partnerships that enable foundational training pathways for young people.
A panel discussion will examine innovative responses from the ACE sector, including Helen Zwicker, CEO of Kiama & Shoalhaven Community Colleges, which has recently opened a special assistance secondary school on the NSW South Coast.
“Australian adult and community education providers have a real possibility to make a profound difference in the lives and employment prospects of young Australians. We are thrilled that these experts will join us to share their ground-breaking programs, from which ACE providers can learn and adapt in their communities,” said Dr Don Perlgut, CCA CEO.
