Young people embarking on an independent life, outside of the family home will not only need to successfully secure a job but also begin navigating the myriad aspects of adult responsibility. Observations of young people in this age group reveal a significant gap in basic life skills essential for adulthood. These include understanding the rental market, budgeting, employment and taxation, entering contracts, and general self-care.

To bridge the gap in life skills education, ideally, schools would incorporate practical "how-to" lessons for students in their final years. However, the focus often remains on achieving high HSC marks. Consequently, the responsibility of teaching these essential skills falls to parents. Yet, many parents might not realise just how unprepared their young adults are for life outside the home.

One crucial area for those who have left home is navigating the rental market and applying for a rental property. Quite apart from finding a suitable place in the current market, and being accepted by the landlord or agent, you would have had to save for the bond, equivalent to four weeks' rent, which is lodged with the Rental Bond Board. 

Additionally, you'll need to pay two weeks' rent in advance and set up a system for regular rental payments. Tenants and landlords both have rights and responsibilities, and it's beneficial to familiarise yourself with these by visiting the various government websites. 

An easier option is often to share accommodation, and this can be quite easy via various share house websites, such as Flatmate Finders or Flatmates. Also bear in mind that some financial assistance can be obtained for students in certain circumstances. 

Another aspect of adulthood is pet care. Many find that their new rental does not allow pets, leaving parents to care for their animals. Before taking on the responsibility of a pet, it's crucial to consider whether you have the means and stability to provide long-term care.

Budgeting and understanding employment are other areas where young people often lack knowledge. For instance, you need to factor in taxation when calculating your income and budget. This isn't intuitive if you've never been employed before. For example, a gross annual salary of $55,000 translates to a weekly income of $1,058, but after taxes and Medicare, the take-home pay is approximately $876. This discrepancy significantly impacts budgeting. From the net weekly income of $876, you need to allocate funds for rent, food, utilities, phone, internet, streaming services, transport, clothing, HECS debt, credit card or personal loan repayments, and entertainment etcetera.

One critical skill I had to teach my son was how to shop effectively. While it may seem obvious to those of us with experience, the value of weekly grocery specials can be eye-opening for the uninitiated. Understanding that buying products on sale or switching brands when they are significantly cheaper can help stretch a budget further is a valuable lesson.

A key strategy is to stock up on non-perishable items when they are half-price. However, it's equally important to avoid overbuying perishable goods, which can lead to waste if they spoil before being used. Learning to balance these aspects is crucial for efficient and economical food shopping.

Similarly, clothes shopping requires a strategic approach. Instead of focusing solely on brands and logos, it's wiser to prioritise style, fabric quality and value for money. This shift in perspective can lead to better purchasing decisions and a more versatile wardrobe. We're still working on perfecting these skills but starting to adopt this mindset sooner rather than later makes a significant difference.

Legal responsibilities and voting: Upon turning 18, young adults can have their own Medicare card, and also need to register with the Australian Electoral Commission to vote in elections. This is often overlooked but is an essential civic duty. Additionally, as legal adults, they can enter into contracts for mobile phones, internet, streaming services, health insurance, and utilities. While car ownership offers independence, it also comes with expenses like repayments, insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Understanding these responsibilities is crucial to avoid legal and financial pitfalls.

Personal safety is another critical consideration. Simple security practices, such as not being alone with strangers, locking windows and doors, not leaving valuables in plain view, and using strong, unique passwords, can help prevent many potential issues. These practices may seem like common sense but often need to be explicitly taught and reinforced.

Basic household cleaning and maintenance is not something that young people have ever had to shoulder responsibility for, yet are essential for safety and hygiene. In a nutshell: Clean filters on hair dryers, vacuums, clothes dryers, and air conditioners regularly. Ensure oil and grease are cleaned from barbeques, ovens, and stovetops to prevent fires. Regularly clean range hoods, check smoke detectors, and never leave appliances on unattended. Avoid quick fixes on electrical appliances and ensure outdoor vents are clear of debris.

Preparing for adult life is multifaceted and requires a combination of practical skills and knowledge that are often overlooked in traditional education. By filling these gaps, whether through parental guidance or self-education, young adults can navigate their new responsibilities more effectively and confidently.