Based on responses from more than 2,000 young people, the report measures youth outlook across three core pillars: wellbeing, capability and future outlook. The findings reveal that while stress and burnout are common across both countries, confidence navigating adulthood is not equally distributed.

Young Americans consistently report stronger confidence in their workforce skills, career direction and ability to manage adult life, while Australian youth are more likely to feel uncertain, underprepared and less optimistic about what comes next.

The report explores:

• Wellbeing, stress and burnout among young people
• Confidence in work, life skills and career pathways
• Preparedness for adulthood
• Future optimism and feelings of control
• How study and employment pathways shape confidence

The findings highlight an emerging “confidence gap” shaping the transition from learning to earning, and provide insight for educators, employers, policymakers and industry leaders looking to better support the next generation.