This paper describes the contours of a program of research focused on Australian youth and the transition they make within and between education and work. The project was initiated in 1978 and centered on longitudinal mail surveys. Questionnaires were sent to three cohorts aged 24 to 25 years old, 20 to 21 years, and 15 to 16 years. Samples involved 6,200, 6,600, and 5,400 people, respectively. The four-page questionnaires contain a core of items bearing on participation and attainments in eudcation and the labor force, along with measures of the following: quality of life; family background and schooling; influence of reference groups during the high school years and immediately thereafter; experiences during the first year in the labor force; living arrangements and family formation. Over 80 percent of those contacted responded without material inducement. The study suggests that if longitudinal studies on a national level are important and should continue, the following points should be considered: (1) providing an institutional identification, (2) seeking government funding; (3) seeking a long-term commitment of funds; (4) negotiating the terms of reference; (5) nominating a resource person; (6) establishing a database; and (7) providing for monitoring capability. Samples of the questionnaires are attached. (JAZ)