''A lot of Gen Z is staying at home as the cost of living is too high,'' he said.

''They simply cannot afford to study or even work as an apprentice and be able to cover rent, utilities and food. If you are able to access government assistance, you are penalised if you work and study at the same time, discouraging Gen Z to save for the long term.''

Mr Mott is the new president of the University of Canberra Students' Association.

He works full-time and studies full-time to cover his cost of living, with little disposable income to spare.

''I moved out of home from regional NSW to Canberra in order to do my studies,'' he said.

''I am fortunate enough to live in Arscott House, student accommodation managed by the Students' Association. But for most of my friends living in share accommodation, they are often required to work overtime or even get a second job in order to live in metropolitan areas.''

Mr Mott said an issue of major importance for his generation was to find the ''work-life-health'' balance.

''I believe youth of today see marriage as something they will have to worry about years from now,'' he said.

''It is still important but not a priority. Just like buying a house, with youth worrying about cost of living in the present, saving for a deposit of a house is put on the backburner until we are in a stable relationship or stable employment.''

Mr Mott is optimistic however about the workforce opportunities for his generation.

''I don't have a concern in breaking into my chosen field as I believe if the passion is there, I will work my way up to the position I desire,'' he said. ''I believe the idea of a one true career is no more, an ever-changing economy and societal needs, careers are not what they were 20 years ago.'' JULIEANNE STRACHAN