Abstract
Every generation thinks they had it tough, but evidence suggests young Australians today might have a case for saying they’ve drawn the short straw.
Compared with young adults two or three decades ago, today’s 18–35-year-olds may earn more, but they also grapple with soaring living costs, rising education expenses, precarious employment and mounting debt.
Shifts in the economy and labour market have restructured young adulthood, creating new barriers to financial security and delaying milestones such as home ownership, partnership and parenthood.
How does this compare to what life was like for young Australians at the turn of the century?
Compared with young adults two or three decades ago, today’s 18–35-year-olds may earn more, but they also grapple with soaring living costs, rising education expenses, precarious employment and mounting debt.
Shifts in the economy and labour market have restructured young adulthood, creating new barriers to financial security and delaying milestones such as home ownership, partnership and parenthood.
How does this compare to what life was like for young Australians at the turn of the century?
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Specialist publication | The Conversation |
| Publication status | Published - 21 Mar 2025 |
Keywords
- Generation Z
- Economic conditions
- Economic disadvantage