This paper discusses research in progress investigating the influence of familial, social and institutional networks on the school retention and employment prospects of secondary school students in Rockhampton. The research aims to inform Queensland government policy aimed at boosting Year 12 completion and facilitating post-compulsory education, training and employment pathways. The paper begins by examining the concepts of social and human capital. This discussion is then related to a current Queensland government agenda, encapsulated in the Queensland Education Department’s Education and Training Reforms for the Future (ETRF) policy that is aimed at increasing Year 12 retention and developing post-compulsory pathways. The design of the research is outlined with reference to this agenda. Preliminary analysis of data highlighting an emerging pattern of strong familial and social networks coupled to an apparent distrust of state institutions and its implications for policy conclude the paper.