The changing patterns of noncompletion of school in Australia during the 1980s and 1990s and the outcomes of noncompletion were examined by analyzing data from the Australian Longitudinal Survey and the Australian Youth Survey. Despite improvements in completion rates among youths from low socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds and those in government schools, noncompleters remained overrepresented by young people from low SES backgrounds, rural areas, government schools, and English-speaking families. As previously, most noncompleters were low achievers and males. The main reasons for not completing year 12 were focus on getting a job or an apprenticeship or earning some money and negative experiences of school. The downturn in teenage employment in 1980s-1990s had a negative impact on noncompleters' employment outcomes. Noncompleters experienced increased unemployment and a decline in full-time employment. Participation in vocational education and training after leaving school remained greater among males. The following policy recommendations were offered: (1) make school programs more relevant and inclusive; (2) place more focus on building self-esteem and improving learning outcomes of those at risk of noncompletion; and (3) target some of the barriers to reentry to formal education and training. (Contains 27 tables and 76 references.) (MN)