This report provides evidence of economic participation trends among resettled refugees, the potential or ‘latent’ labour force capacity in this group and the timing of ‘transitions’ into the labour force. Many refugees working as managers and professionals before arriving in Australia have struggled to have their skills and qualifications recognised, and are still experiencing an ‘occupational downgrade’ 10 years after arrival.

The report focuses specifically on the relationship between family dynamics and employment. It points to possible barriers that could be reduced or eliminated through policy interventions.

Key findings

• Before arriving in Australia, 30% of employed women and 19% of employed men had been working in managerial or professional roles – dropping to 17% and 10% respectively after 10 years of residency.
• 39% of women and 63% of men were in the labour force 10 years after arriving in Australia.
• Participants in good health and who were proficient in spoken English had higher participation and employment rates.
• The likelihood of employment for women who were in families with children under five was 84% lower than that of men in the same situation.