Asset Development and the Youth Economy - A discussion paper by Cameron Neil

This discussion paper, written by Cameron Neil for Brisbane City Council, presents research, opinions and resources on asset development for young people and the importance of youth as consumers in local economies.

Traditional approaches to poverty and financial disadvantage in Australia have primarily focused on regularly supplementing income through social security benefits

Because these schemes are means tested, people have to deplete their assets before they qualify for assistance. This traditional welfare model denies many individuals the ability to accumulate the very assets they need to achieve economic independence. Policy makers in the US and the UK have embraced asset-based welfare reform as an alternative option for the poor

This discussion paper suggests that policies and programs that focus on developing community and individual assets have great potential to break cycles of poverty and give poor people the resources they need to help themselves. Such programs may prove invaluable in contributing to youth-led local community economic development and the creation of social and human capital in Australian communities.

The discussion paper emerged in the context of writing a new Youth Strategy for 2003-2006 for Brisbane City Council.

Follow this link to download free 'Acrobat Reader from Adobe'. You will need it to open PDF files.

For further information

Contact	:	Cameron Neil, Consulting Director, Catenate Pty.Ltd.
Mobile	:	0402 072 452
Email	:	cameronneil@iypf.org