Addressing Systemic Economic Abuse:
The Struggles of Youth and the Hidden Impact on Mature-Aged Women and Single Mothers
In the lead-up to the election, there’s been an increased focus on the hardships young people face. It’s refreshing to hear their voices—and rightly so.
I recently commented on a post by Steven Miles where he interviewed a young person about the challenges young people face today.
However, while that focus is important, we cannot ignore, and I want to highlight the broader systemic economic abuse that affects not only youth but also mature-aged women—particularly single mothers—who are often left out of the conversation.
The systems that claim to support us are, in many cases, deepening inequality, limiting opportunity, and compounding vulnerability—not just for our children and young people, but for the women—the mothers—those children live with.
These groups are being economically exploited by the very systems meant to support them, and it’s time for serious, comprehensive reform.
This blog entry expands on that Facebook comment.
It’s a deeper look at how exclusion from financial support like Austudy and Youth Allowance, paired with housing insecurity, lack of health concessions, and token inclusion in education, is contributing to a broader crisis—and how it’s time for reform that recognises and supports all Australians.
Steven Miles’ original Post—
The Struggles of Young People and Single Mothers
Many young people in Australia are struggling under the weight of high living costs, limited job opportunities, and a lack of social support. But single mothers, particularly those who raised children before equal opportunity existed, face additional barriers that disproportionately affect their ability to thrive.
These women, who sacrificed their careers to raise children in an era when equal opportunity wasn’t a given, are often excluded from Austudy and other allowances, even when they’re accepted into postgraduate degrees.
Their experience often exceeds that of a Bachelor’s degree, but they’re still denied the financial support necessary to continue their education or enter the workforce at full capacity.
Barriers to Work, Study, and Equal Pay: A System Stacked Against Women
The systems that claim to support us are, in many cases, deepening inequality, limiting opportunity, and compounding vulnerability—not just for young people, but also for the women they live with—their mothers, carers, guardians and women old enough to be grandparents, many of whom are carrying the weight of entire households alone.
The inequities faced by youth in accessing education and support services have far-reaching consequences that extend into the workforce. Young individuals often find themselves limited to hourly and shift work, which typically offers significantly lower incomes. This precarious employment not only stifles their financial stability but also interferes with their ability to commit to studies and maintain a healthy work-life balance. As a result, many young people struggle to secure positions that provide fair wages and opportunities for advancement, perpetuating a cycle of economic instability that can ripple through their families.
For single-parent mothers, this instability can be particularly devastating. When young parents are unable to achieve financial security, it directly impacts their ability to provide for their children, creating additional stress and challenges in their households. The struggle to balance work and family responsibilities can lead to a cycle of hardship that is difficult to escape.
Mature-aged women also face profound challenges due to systemic barriers. Many possess a wealth of skills and experience yet encounter significant obstacles because they lack formal degrees. This often results in lower pay and limited job opportunities, as employers frequently prioritise formal qualifications over practical expertise.
The challenges are further compounded by years of unpaid labour—raising children, managing households, and contributing to their communities—work that is often undervalued in economic terms.
Additionally, many women face unfair property settlements and inadequate child support arrangements, further exacerbating their financial vulnerability and limiting their ability to achieve economic independence.
Both youth and mature-aged women grapple with the lingering effects of outdated societal norms that suppress their voices and ambitions.
These archaic attitudes not only hinder personal growth but also reinforce the status quo, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to break free from cycles of economic abuse and inequality.
By addressing these interconnected issues, we can begin to dismantle the barriers that perpetuate systemic economic abuse, paving the way for a more equitable future for all.
Undervalued Experience and Historical Exclusion
Many mature-aged women bring decades of hands-on experience and have achieved the highest certifications available to them at the time—qualifications that, in today’s academic framework, would equate to a degree or even postgraduate standing.
These women built careers and raised families during eras when equal opportunity was not just absent but actively discouraged.
In male-dominated industries like law, finance, and corporate services, women were routinely expected to perform management-level work while being paid secretarial wages.
They were dissuaded from applying for leadership or presidential roles and often had their career advancement blocked purely on the basis of gender.
Indeed, this still occurs today, as glass ceilings persist and competence continues to be overlooked in favour of credentials or networks skewed toward traditional, male-dominated pathways.
Now, these same women are learning that unless they undertake a Bachelor’s degree—often below their level of competence—they will be ineligible for support schemes such as Austudy.
This is not just unjust; it’s counterproductive. It erases the very real value of practical knowledge, leadership experience, and long-standing contributions. It undermines confidence, imposes unnecessary financial and emotional burdens, and locks capable women out of the workforce or advancement opportunities at a time when they should be supported—not sidelined.
These practices aren’t just inefficient—they border on systemic discrimination and represent a failure to uphold basic human rights: the right to equal opportunity, access to education, dignity in work, and equitable access to support.
The Exploitation of Women in a Skewed System
In a system still heavily skewed toward academic qualifications rather than practical competence and life-earned skills, many capable women find themselves economically disadvantaged, undervalued, overlooked, and, in many cases, exploited.
Despite possessing a wealth of experience and skills gained through years of unpaid labour—raising children, managing households, and contributing to their communities—these women often struggle to gain recognition in the workforce.
The emphasis on formal education over practical expertise creates significant barriers for mature-aged women, who may be overlooked for job opportunities that align with their capabilities. This not only limits their earning potential but also reinforces a cycle of economic instability that can affect their families and communities, contributing to the prevalence of domestic violence.
Even when women do return to study, they often do so under immense pressure—juggling postgraduate degrees, work, and parenting responsibilities, all while managing the physical toll that can come with age. Conditions like arthritis, chronic fatigue, cancer diagnoses, or mental health challenges brought on by years of stress and economic strain are not uncommon. Yet there is little accommodation or consideration for these compounded barriers. Instead, the expectation remains: do it all, and do it well—without support.
The result? A cycle that continually punishes women for the very roles society has long expected them to fulfill. It's no wonder so many burn out, drop out, or end up in precarious work with no safety net.
Addressing these systemic inequities is crucial for empowering women and ensuring that their contributions are valued and recognised in both economic and social contexts.
By shifting the focus from formal qualifications to a more inclusive understanding of competence, we can begin to dismantle the barriers that perpetuate exploitation and inequality.
True reform must start by recognising the real value of lived experience, supporting non-linear educational pathways, and creating workplaces and welfare systems that accommodate—not penalise—mature-aged women seeking to re-enter the workforce or upskill.
The Impact of Systemic Exclusion
Mature-aged women, especially single mothers, face a significant lack of financial support that exacerbates their already precarious situations. Many do not receive rent assistance when living in their own homes—whether they are paying a mortgage or not. This exclusion from financial support systems can be particularly harsh, as these women often juggle multiple responsibilities, including caregiving and employment, while trying to maintain a stable household.
Additionally, many mature-aged women may not qualify for a Health Care Card, which limits their access to essential health services and medications.
If they are not deemed ‘senior’ enough, they may also miss out on rates relief, a benefit that pensioners receive.
These omissions force these women into a constant state of financial insecurity, leaving them vulnerable to coercive control and manipulation by economic systems, corporate entities, and personal circumstances.
The failure to provide these basic supports does not merely cause financial stress; it exacerbates existing vulnerabilities, health conditions, and mental health challenges.
The lack of financial stability can lead to chronic stress, which in turn can manifest as anxiety, depression, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness. For many, these mental health issues become frequent companions, particularly when they see no viable escape from their economic hardship.
Moreover, the absence of adequate support can lead to housing instability and even homelessness.
The fear of losing a home can be overwhelming, pushing women into desperate situations where they may have to make difficult choices that compromise their safety and well-being.
This cycle of instability not only affects their immediate circumstances but also has long-term repercussions for their children, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage that can span generations.
Addressing these systemic exclusions is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty and vulnerability. By implementing policies that provide comprehensive financial support, access to healthcare, and resources for mental health, we can empower mature-aged women and single mothers to regain control over their lives and futures.
It is essential to recognise that these women are not just statistics; they are individuals with valuable contributions to make, deserving of dignity, respect, and the opportunity to thrive.
Contradictions in Policy
The systemic exclusion faced by mature-aged women and single mothers highlights a broader issue within our societal framework—one that reveals glaring contradictions in how the system treats different demographics, particularly young people and adults.
While mature-aged women struggle to access basic financial support and face barriers that perpetuate their vulnerability, young individuals encounter their own set of challenges that hinder their path to independence.
We now hear the LNP Queensland State Premier’s slogan, “Adult Time for Adult Crime,” echoed in the justice system. Yet, paradoxically, young people are routinely denied the adult rights that would support their true independence—such as access to study support, financial autonomy, and even the freedom to engage on social media platforms, particularly with proposed bans for those under 16. Many of these young individuals live below the poverty line or earn wages that fall short of the minimum wage, further limiting their opportunities.
This contradiction raises critical questions about the values we uphold as a society: How can we expect young people to take responsibility for their actions if we simultaneously deny them the essential tools and opportunities necessary for personal growth and development?
Many of the young people we hear from are denied the opportunity to grow and thrive, simply because the system deems them unworthy of support. This lack of access to essential resources not only stifles their potential but also reinforces a cycle of disadvantage that can lead to long-term economic instability. For instance, without financial support for education or vocational training, young individuals may find themselves trapped in low-wage jobs with little chance for advancement, perpetuating a cycle of poverty that can last for generations.
This issue is not just confined to young people; it extends to anyone trying to overcome economic challenges, including mature-aged men and women.
The contradictions in policy that favour certain demographics over others create an uneven playing field, where those who need support the most are often left to navigate their struggles alone. For example, while young people are denied access to financial autonomy, mature-aged individuals face barriers to re-entering the workforce or upskilling due to outdated perceptions of their capabilities.
Moreover, these contradictions reflect a lack of substantive equality, leading to feelings of frustration and disenfranchisement among both young people and mature-aged individuals. When policies fail to recognise the diverse needs of these groups, they perpetuate a sense of hopelessness and alienation, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to envision a path toward a better future. This superficial approach to equality not only fails to address the underlying barriers that prevent meaningful access to opportunities but also entrenches distrust in government, as affected individuals feel ignored and marginalised by those in power.
Addressing these contradictions is essential for creating a more equitable society.
By re-evaluating policies to ensure that they provide meaningful support to all individuals—regardless of age—we can empower both young people and mature-aged adults to pursue their goals and contribute positively to their communities.
It is crucial to foster an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, breaking down the barriers that perpetuate inequality and exclusion.
How These Failures Fuel the Cost-of-Living Crisis
These systemic failures extend beyond economic implications; they are deeply social and psychological as well.
The lack of financial assistance, inadequate access to essential services like healthcare, limited rebate entitlements tied to holding a Health Care Card, insufficient rent relief, and the ongoing contradictions in how youth and adults are treated under the law all contribute to the escalating cost-of-living crisis.
When individuals already on the brink are denied the support necessary to move forward, they face long-term consequences, including mental health challenges and, in severe cases, homelessness.
The status quo is untenable.
It is imperative that we pursue joint state and federal reforms that address the needs of all Australians, particularly the most vulnerable.
This includes enhancing financial support for young people in education and increasing welfare support more generally. It also involves extending allowances for single parents—especially mature-aged women—who often face unique challenges.
Additionally, it is crucial to address the systemic inequalities that perpetuate domestic violence, as well as barriers to education, employment, and housing security.
By prioritising these areas, we can create a more equitable environment that empowers individuals and fosters harmonious families and healthy societies, rather than perpetuating dependency on government systems.
Change is not just necessary; it is overdue!
The Need for Comprehensive Reform
Reform must be a joint effort—state and federal—to ensure that everyone, from young people struggling with the cost of living to mature-aged women striving to restart their careers and education, receives the meaningful support they deserve.
This isn’t just about handing out financial assistance or justifying the existence of abuse centres; it’s about addressing root causes and ensuring real impact.
True reform means providing safety, opportunity, and equity for all—not token inclusion or funnelling money into administration and organisations that claim to help victims while those most in need remain unsupported.
We need policies that do more than just tick boxes; they must address the root causes of economic exclusion and ensure that vulnerable groups are empowered, not pushed further into poverty and instability.
It’s time for the government to stop sending mixed messages and create a system that supports, rather than punishes, those who are trying to build a better future for themselves and their families.
Conclusion
This piece aims to highlight the intersecting issues of systemic economic abuse, contradictions in policy, and the urgent need for reform to create a more equitable system for both youth and mature-aged individuals, particularly women.
The current landscape reveals a troubling reality where vulnerable populations are often left to navigate a maze of inadequate support and systemic barriers.
It is imperative that we recognise the profound impact of economic exclusion on individuals and families, as well as the long-term consequences for society as a whole.
This is a call to action for comprehensive reform that prioritises lifting these populations out of poverty rather than sealing them in cycles of economic and social exclusion.
We must advocate for policies that not only provide immediate relief but also address the root causes of inequality and empower individuals to build sustainable futures.
By fostering a system that values safety, opportunity, and equity, we can create a society where everyone has the chance to thrive. It is time for policymakers to listen, act decisively, and commit to meaningful change that uplifts all members of our community.
Together, we can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future!
💬 Related Reading
For more on Dutton’s response to what he’ll do for women — and how systemic financial abuse impacts both youth and single mothers — read my follow-up article:
👉 “Dutton's Tax Deduction on Interest for the First $650K of a Mortgage: What Does It Really Mean?”
Or simple go to
📍 DianneMead.substack.com
The rise of young people and mothers is the foundation for stronger, healthier communities and economies!
-Dianne
#FairGoMate #systemicabuse #economicabuse #systemiceconomicabuse #YouthMatters #SingleMothers #WelfareReform #Election2025