And if you are a 55 year old, with more than 20 years experience in the forces, no matter how fit and capable you are, you are forced to retire, even though you may be suitably qualified and experienced in the many non-combat jobs currently needed in the forces. The complainants were three prospective entrants to the ADF and one serving member who complained about the upper age limit for applicants for a number of positions, in all cases 35 years. I found in all cases that the age limit constituted discrimination in employment and could not be justified. Young people also face discrimination in employment. We all want young people to find work.
Government policy is directed towards that.
But what is particularly disheartening for young people is that age often matters even for jobs which do not require experience. Even when young people have some experience, they are told point blank that they are too young. One mother of an 18 year old school leaver rang us in despair. Her son had been told directly several times by employers on the phone sorry, but we don t want to take on someone so young . And, as outlined in the report, an 18 year old who is forced to apply for income support, because he or she cannot find a job, receives a differential payment of support based solely on age not circumstances.