Youth unemployment is a priority area for Government. Young people need as much opportunity and assistance to help them find employment as possible. In the current economic climate, youth unemployment is expected to rise, particularly in Auckland. The March 2009 Household Labour Force Survey has illustrated the impact on youth as recent figures show an increase in the unemployment rate for both 15-19 year olds and 20-24 year olds: 1.7% and 4.7%, respectively. This increase is even more worrying when compared to the average increase of 1.2% in the Auckland region. As a result, there will be an increased number of young people who are likely to require assistance.
In light of the growing concerns for young people’s wellbeing in this current economic climate, a project was conducted to explore young people’s perspectives on what they think young people need to ensure they are best placed to find employment. The project targeted young people (with a focus on Māori and Pasifika) living in Auckland, and who are currently linked to Work and Income.
This report provides young people’s views on the kinds of skills and support they need to find employment.