Employment | Youth

Breaking the barriers to youth employment

Ritchelle Drilon
June 26, 2026

Youth unemployment remains one of Australia’s most persistent social challenges.

For many young people, the issue is not a lack of ambition. It is a lack of access: to mentors, training, workplace networks, transport, confidence and the first opportunity that can lead to stable work.

PCYC NSW is working to close that gap through youth employability programs that support young people facing barriers to employment. Its programs are designed to help participants build practical skills, connect with employers and take the first steps towards financial security and independence.

Youth unemployment for Australians aged 15 to 24 sits at 10.1 per cent, more than double the national unemployment rate, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

PCYC NSW supported 515 young people facing employment barriers through its youth programs in 2025. The organisation says every $1 invested in its work returns $7.76 to New South Wales through economic, health and social benefits, based on a social return on investment calculation completed with support from KPMG.

One of its key programs, Stepping Up, provides one-on-one career mentorship to school leavers aged 17 to 21. The 12-month program helps young people build real connections with employers and develop the confidence to pursue work.

For 18-year-old participant Majok Lual, the program helped turn uncertainty into direction after years of moving between casual jobs.

“The opportunities I got through PCYC employability programs have changed the trajectory of my life,” Majok said.

“PCYC put me on the right path and gave me my start in construction. I’m now working towards becoming a Construction Manager. I wouldn’t be here today without my involvement in Stepping Up.”

For young people who have experienced disadvantage or disconnection from education and work, employment can provide more than income. It can offer structure, belonging, confidence and a sense of control over the future.

PCYC NSW General Manager Fundraising and Marketing Bree Godden said the organisation’s youth programs remain free for vulnerable and disadvantaged young people because of support from donors, corporate partners and grant partners.

“Gaining meaningful employment helps young people contribute to stronger communities and even support their families, sometimes their pay cheque is the reason food is on their family table,” Godden said.

“Your donation empowers the next generation to build brighter futures they can be proud of. Every gift removes a barrier for a young person who wants to work but doesn’t know how to get there, they just need the opportunity.”

That opportunity can be life-changing.

For 18-year-old Avehry Pesamino, a career as a qualified chef once felt out of reach. After being referred to PCYC NSW, she gained the confidence and interview skills to secure work experience at a local restaurant. That placement became a chef apprenticeship.

“Employability programs gave me the confidence and interview skills to secure work experience at a local restaurant, which turned into a chef apprenticeship. I am now excited for my future after years of feeling lost,” Avehry said.

PCYC NSW also delivers Fit for Work, a 10-week program for young people under 18 who are disengaged from work or education. Delivered in partnership with NSW Police and industry leaders, the program provides workplace and life skills, including First Aid and White Card certifications.

In 2025, 83 per cent of Fit for Work participants re-engaged with school or gained employment.

The impact of youth employment programs extends beyond the individual. When young people gain skills, confidence and work, families and communities benefit too. Employment can reduce social isolation, strengthen local economies and give young people a stronger foundation for adulthood.

Youth employability programs also show the value of early, practical intervention. A travel subsidy, a training course, mentoring support or help with food costs can remove a barrier that might otherwise prevent a young person from staying engaged.

PCYC NSW says donations help keep these supports accessible. A contribution can assist with weekly food costs, travel for a school term, or places in accredited training such as First Aid.

For charities working with young people, the lesson is simple: pathways into employment are built through trust, practical support and sustained connection.

A young person may only need one genuine opportunity to change direction. Programs that provide that opportunity can help turn uncertainty into work, confidence and a future with more choice.