Despite being often referred to as demanding, impatient and apparently not willing to put in the hard yards, Generation Y are slowly penetrating the workplace, introducing fresh ideas and new perspectives proving vital for companies weathering the economic downturn. 
 
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia Victoria/Tasmania General Manager, Michael Nazzari said: “In the next four years, more and more skilled and experienced workers will retire. If employers focus on fixing today’s problems and ignore tomorrow’s, they will be left without the resources they need when the economy rebounds. This is why it is vital that they continue to invest in leaders of the future.”  
 
With the economy now depending on a new generation of business leaders, Mr Nazzari says it’s important that students have a good understanding about the bigger picture of business to prepare them for the work environment. 
 
“To support student professional development, the Institute and accredited firms are offering work experience placements to accounting, finance and commerce students undergoing their first and second year of university. 
 
"The Chartered Accountant Achiever Work Experience program provides our members with direct access to high calibre accounting students. The students also have the opportunity to develop practical skills and the qualities required to be a business leader and possibly secure a permanent position with the firm," continued Mr Nazzari. 
 
Eleanor Brodie currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce and Law at the University of Melbourne, was one of 34 candidates selected for the program last year and was awarded a placement with KPMG. Ms Brodie said the program provided a great opportunity to make contacts in the industry, learn practical skills and determine which area of accounting she would pursue following graduation.  
 
The work experience placements run from two to 12 weeks with Institute accredited firms and will take place during the 2008 summer break.