First assignment for my unit on Theories of Work and Organisation is due this weekend. We have to draw on the topics we’ve covered over recent weeks to explain how the COVID-19 pandemic and the changing nature of work has impacted on young workers and their career opportunities.
It’s an interesting situation. Many academics are saying the world is approaching a capitalist crossroad and that governments must step up to address the flaws in our economic system, exacerbated by the effect of globalism and technology on the labour market. Capitalism relies on consumption, but what will happen when too many people are living below the poverty line and household debt becomes unsustainable?
This is why the constant mantra of politicians is “jobs, jobs, jobs”. However the nature of work is changing. Young people in particular are finding it more difficult to get into regular work and we see high levels of casualisation and the rise of the ‘gig’ economy as business and government policy favour a ‘flexible’ workforce. One that forgoes basic conditions such as paid sick leave and in some cases, superannuation – when workers are no longer classed as employees but ‘contractors’.
The pitfalls of this situation were never more evident than in the recent public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time of border closures and lockdowns, ‘non-essential’ businesses were unable to trade. This affected many workers in service industries such as retail, food services, accommodation, construction, of which a high proportion are young workers. The Australian government implemented the JobKeeper allowance which helped keep businesses afloat and many people in jobs. However JobKeeper did not apply for casuals employed for less than 12 months, or others who earn their living through work platforms such as Uber and AirTasker.
Since borders have re-opened we are seeing immediate signs of a healthy recovery. The government’s stimulus measures have created a boom for business and unemployment is currently at record low levels. Some commentators are pointing out that the present low rates are temporary due to the effect of fewer foreign workers in Australia at the moment. As international workers return, so will competition for jobs.
What about the quality of the jobs? How do young workers tackle the challenges and leverage opportunities (if any)? I will elaborate in my assignment.
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