A new study will investigate the problems mature-age Melton and Moorabool jobseekers face when looking for work.
The Brotherhood of St Laurence will interview residents aged between 45 and 70, older Newstart clients and those using job-active providers from Bacchus Marsh, Brookfield, Melton and Rockbank.
Principal researcher Dina Bowman said the study aims to better understand mature-age jobseekers, and their experiences looking for work.
While youth unemployment is at an all-time high across the west (more than 20 per cent), the plight of older unemployed people is rarely discussed, and “very different”, Dr Bowman said.
Mature-age jobseekers tend to be unemployed longer, and quite often enter retirement with little or no savings.
“In part, they may face age discrimination,” Dr Bowman said. “But [some] jobs … no longer exist.”
Dr Bowman said older people unemployed for a long time often find online recruitment a daunting task.
Those interested in taking part are asked to complete a short survey, after which participants will be selected for a 45-60 minute phone interview. Participants will get a $50 Coles voucher.
Dr Bowman said interpreters could help people who don’t speak English.
Details: www.bsl.org.au/matureagejobs or call 9483 1330.
