Evolving inequality: the enduring lessons of the Life Chances longitudinal study

In June we launched the final report into the Life Chances longitudinal study. It was a wonderful event marking 34 years of this unique study. Beginning in Fitzroy over three decades ago, Life Chances has contributed important insights into the experience and persistence of inequality in Australia.

The Life Chances longitudinal study grew from BSL’s concern with the level of child poverty in Australia and a desire to better understand what affects children’s life chances. It followed 167 infants born in two inner-Melbourne suburbs who were recruited through local Maternal and Child Health Services. Our researchers followed these babies through infancy, childhood, teenage years and adulthood to explore what shaped their opportunities and highlight what needs to change to even the odds.

It was an honour to have Dr Rebecca Huntley, social researcher and author, launch the final report Inequality in Australia  at the Fitzroy Town Hall. This was followed by a special BSL Talks with Professor Roger Wilkins (Deputy Director of the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research), along with Dr Huntley, Dr Dina Bowman (BSL’s Senior Research Fellow and co-author of the study) and two Life Chances participants, Isabel Walker and Vinh Tran.

Many participants who have been involved with the study also attended the special occasion. The release of the report received significant media coverage, including on ABC TV News, The World Today, ABC Radio, ABC print, The Project, the Today Show and the Guardian.