Survey Finds Growing Future Readiness Among Gen Z Students

Young Australians face significant economic challenges, including high housing costs, sluggish wage growth, and limited political representation, which hinder their financial stability and homeownership prospects. Deloitte Access Economics highlights that 40% of young Australians need family support to enter the housing market, and government initiatives like the accelerated 5% deposit scheme aim to assist but risk driving prices higher. Meanwhile, Generation Z students in the U.S. are increasingly confident about their future readiness, with a recent survey showing a notable rise in middle and high school students feeling prepared, although gaps remain. Gen Z's educational outlook emphasizes practical, career-oriented learning, favoring flexible, technology-integrated approaches that address economic pressures and mental health concerns. Educators are encouraged to adapt teaching strategies to meet Gen Z's unique motivations and challenges, fostering critical thinking and resiliency amid evolving societal and technological landscapes. However, critiques of national education policies warn that political rhetoric often obscures the real needs of students, potentially leaving vulnerable children behind.