Today’s released unemployment figure of 7.1% hides the real impact of unemployment on young workers, with unemployment increasing 2 points to 16.1% for workers aged between 15-24.

We have seen industries that many young people work in, such as hospitality and entertainment, hit hard by the pandemic. Young people are disproportionately affected by casualisation of the workforce, and this is clearly playing out in the unemployment figures.

These numbers also do not account for youth underemployment, with many young workers struggling to get enough hours to put food on the table and pay the rent.

Young workers must be better supported during this crisis, and we call on the federal government to extend JobKeeper to all casual workers.

Quotes attributable to Felicity Sowerbutts, Director of Young Workers Centre:

“At a crucial time during the pandemic, young workers are being left behind by the federal government.”

“This unemployment crisis has the potential to set young people starting out their working lives back for years, if not decades.”

“We are also seeing underemployment as a real issue, with young workers struggling to work enough hours to pay the bills and put food on the table.”

“JobKeeper must be extended to all casual workers – young workers need support and must not be left behind.”

ENDS

Media contact: Danielle Croci, [email protected]