The Commonwealth government aims to have all young people under the age of 20 years receiving some form of education or training. In this context, it is important to consider the circumstances of those young people who presently fall short of this aim so that consideration can be given to policies which may address their needs. This paper examines the education and training experiences of young people aged 15-19 years living in Melbourne - in particular, the relationship between parental circumstances (in terms of perceived employment, locational or education advantage or disadvantage) and youth education and training outcomes. the report provides both statistical and case study approaches. The data relate to 755 young people aged 15-19 years in 1991-92, who were included in the Australian Living Standards Study (ALSS) in four areas of Melbourne: two outer-suburban areas (Berwick and Werribee), one middle-distance area (Box Hill) and the then inner-city local government area of Melbourne. The sample includes young people aged 15-19 years living away from home.