ACCORDING to a report published by the Australian Productivity Commission, youth across the nation will be subject to lower job security and wages for the rest of their working lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The report highlights that an entire generation will be left debilitated by the virus, courtesy of the economic aftermath of a nation-wide lockdown.
Manager of Sureway Employment and Training Griffith, Sally Centofanti, says that younger people are facing more challengers in finding employment, but there are ways to overcome the obstacles.
"Our younger generation can struggle with getting a foot in the door, often related to their limited work history in comparison to people who have been in the workforce far longer," Ms Centofanti explained.
"Being able to demonstrate that you have started something and stuck to it, whether it is work, study, or a community activity, is key to overcoming this challenge.
"If you are interested in a particular industry, do your research, look into education options to show you are willing to do the work."
It has become crucial for young people to up-skill in an effort to become irresistible to employers, whether that be through traineeships, career development programs, or networking events.
Milennials will be forced to learn new job-hunting skills to stand out in the post-pandemic working world, such as writing an enticing resume, setting up LinkedIn, and learning how to ace job interviews.
"There are so many avenues for locals to gain education, whether it is TAFE, apprenticeships or distance education options," Ms Centofanti said.
"Having experience related to your qualification is a big draw card for employers.
"If you can show that you have workplace experience related to your study then you are more likely to get an opportunity."
The report's authors expect to see young graduates start and finish their careers lower on the jobs ladder, which was a pattern that emerged after the global financial crisis.
"Sometimes it is about looking at those 'survival jobs', something that pays the bills, to also continue education and strive for the higher score jobs," Ms Centofanti said.
"It may not always be a dream job, but this gives you a greater platform to strive for something higher.
"I would encourage younger people to consider all opportunities, because starting in one area can lead to bigger and better things."
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