Research

This project examines the role of education and training qualifications in reducing the incidence of financial disadvantage. Using the longitudinal data from the HILDA survey, it compares the protective effects of VET qualifications (apprenticeships, traineeships and non-apprenticeship VET qualifications) on types of financial disadvantage with other forms of education and training (higher education, Year 12 completion, and non-completion of Year 12). It is hypothesised that VET qualifications may play a particularly important role in protecting individuals and their households from falling into financial disadvantage, especially for extended bouts, and for individuals experiencing financial disadvantage, VET facilitates exiting from financial disadvantage. Such questions have great policy relevance in times of economic downturn.