Fragmented Futures examines how working life has become more 'fragmented' as a result of significant social and economic change in Australia in the last quarter of the twentieth century. It asks how we should address such fragmentation in pursuit of a society in which prosperity is shared, diversity, choice and opportunity are increased, and exclusion and inequality are minimised.
The book begins by examining the dominant model for Australian working life throughout most of the twentieth century (known as 'Harvester man'), its breakdown and the response to date. It then explores the specific fragmentation processes that have occurred, using a combination of surveys, statistics and other qualitative and quantitative research. Trends and issues covered include:

our aspirations
opportunities for work, unemployment and underemployment
industry restructuring and the disappearance of jobs and occupations
the growth of non-standard forms of employment
longer and more intense working hours
wage trends and the rising gap between rich and poor
the work/life balance
skills, training and education
retirement and superannuation
how international factors such as increased competition, consumption and investment have contributed to the above changes.
Fragmented Futures provides a foundation on which to begin addressing the real social problems faced in work and life today. Its themes are at the core of everyday Australian experience; our response to its challenges will determine every Australian's future.