Centre for Independent Studies
Centre for Independent Studies
The Centre For Independent Studies
Generation Trapped: Why Young Australians Can't Get Ahead
37 minutes Posted May 21, 2026 at 7:04 am.
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Show notes
In this Stutch Sessions episode Parnell Palm McGuinness, author of the CIS report Generation Trapped, explains how young Australians (18–34) split into six distinct ’tribes’ all still aspire to homeownership, family, meaningful work and financial security, but feel blocked by high housing costs and limited agency.
The conversation covers the political fallout from recent tax changes (capital gains and negative gearing), young entrepreneurs’ resentment at perceived penalties on risk-taking, rising distrust in government spending, and the broader implications for policy: boosting opportunity and agency rather than punitive measures.