The charts illustrate the proportions of Australian secondary school graduates who were unemployed, employed, or pursued further education in 1980, 1990, and 2000.
Overall, employment became the largest category from 1990 onwards, while unemployment remained the smallest category throughout the period. In contrast, the proportion of graduates pursuing further education declined over time.
In 1980, half of Australian secondary school graduates chose to pursue further education, making it the largest category. Meanwhile, 40% found employment, while only 10% were unemployed. By 1990, the proportion of employed graduates had increased to 50%, overtaking further education, which fell to 38%. In contrast, the unemployment rate rose slightly to 12%.
In 2000, employment continued to increase, reaching 55%, making it the largest category. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate fell to 8%, making it the smallest proportion throughout the period. On the other hand, the percentage of graduates pursuing further education declined slightly to 37%.
