Abstract:
Popular opinion suggests young Australians are no longer interested in families
and/or careers, This longitudinal study of Australian university graduates reports
early findings about career orientations, associated long working hours and the
work/family nexus. Most participants seem to be what Hakim (2000) regards as
'adaptive' in terms of work and family preferences. It appears more that they are
pursuing fulfilling careers while negotiating new and traditional expectations of
gender and family. Most seek equalitarian partnerships of shared care-giving and
meaningful careers for both partners, with children typically part of their life goals.