Nick Dyrenfurth argues that for too long statistics have been hiding the real economic story. Consider the latest unemployment data - ostensibly good news. But ask anyone who is working or looking for work and you’ll hear a different story.

This report outlines the findings of an online survey of users of the Jobactive service, the main employment service for people who are unemployed, conducted by ACOSS between 7 and 22 July 2018.

This guide provides a brief overview of long-term unemployment, an introduction to the key concepts and terminology, and lists relevant data sources.

Long-term unemployment remains a threat for young Australians, but blaming them for this situation is not supported by the facts.

The report was prepared before the coronavirus outbreak and the subsequent announcement of a six-month payment that effectively doubles the rate of the JobSeeker Allowance (Newstart) and Youth Allowance. Nonetheless, the report provides important insights that could be applied by government to effectively reduce long-term unemployment in the lead up to Australia's recovery from the...