8 December 2022, SBS News, Aleisha Orr. Access the full article here.
A report has found those with barriers to work, such as older workers who have lost their jobs later in life, people who did not finish year 12, or people living with disabilities struggle to get into the workforce.
Ronnie Ware has spent about five years trying to get a job.
The 25-year-old – who has autism – isn’t alone, according to a new report released today, which says while unemployment rates may be low, the Australian jobs market is locking out a section of the community.
Anglicare Australia’s Jobs Availability Snapshot found “disadvantaged” jobseekers spend an average of five years looking for work as higher skilled jobseekers apply and compete for entry-level jobs.
The report looked at work opportunities for people with barriers to work, such as older workers who have lost their jobs later in life, people who did not finish year 12, or people living with disabilities.
Anglicare executive director Kasy Chambers said the current system was failing those who need the most help to find work.
Our snapshot shows that almost 100,000 Australians in this situation are looking for work, that number has barely budged in five years – the same people are being left behind each year,
– Kasy Chambers
Employment services survey
The Punishment for Profit report is based on hundreds of responses to surveys conducted by the Antipoverty Centre. This research is ongoing. If you are in Workforce Australia, Disability Employment Services or a similar program, we welcome any information you are able to share about your experiences.