Settlement Guide: 5 barriers to multicultural youth employment

The national unemployment rate for 15 to 24 year olds is currently 12.2 per cent. Finding a job can be rather challenging, especially for young people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. They face additional disadvantages in terms of earning and occupational attainment. So, what are the main barriers to multicultural youth employment?

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1. Low levels of English proficiency

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2. Experience discrimination in looking for work and in interview and selection processes.

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3. Lack of relevant occupational skills or evidence of past experience.

This includes limited work experience and lack of recognition of prior learning and qualifications

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4. Limited knowledge around Australian systems, workplace culture and how to get a job.

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5. Lack of social networks

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The Victorian Government’s Youth Central website contains jobs and career advice including resume writing skills and how to apply for jobs.

The NSW Government’s Family and Community Services website includes youth jobs and career links.

The myfuture website is a job search portal providing advice on occupations, courses, industries and companies.