Today, millions of young Australians are navigating a world brimming with challenges that are impact their lives, mental health, and education.
A 2023 survey found the top four most important issues to young people are the environment (44%), equity and discrimination (31%), the economy and financial matters (31%), and mental health (30%).
Respondents also expressed greater levels of concern relating to the issue of housing and homelessness than in previous years (19%, up from 12% in 2022).
Today, Mission Australia is putting out the call for young people aged 15-19 to have their say in the charity’s 23rd annual Youth Survey, which allows young people to share what they view as the key issues impacting the country and highlight their own personal challenges.
The Youth Survey 2024 will focus on a wide range of topics, including questions on mental health and wellbeing, sources of support and community connections, housing and financial situation, climate change, and personal concerns such as body image, bullying, discrimination and stress.
Young people are also asked to provide solutions to the personal issues they face. Additional focus areas for 2024 are social media use, loneliness and opinions relating to alcohol and drugs.
“The results of the 2024 survey will reflect the current reality for young people in Australia,” Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said.
“Our young people are living with the existential anxiety of climate change while also navigating a cost-of-living crisis where housing stress is impacting many families.”
Results of the survey will be published in November and are shared with government and non-government organisations, schools and the public.
“Policymakers, organisations and schools draw on our Youth Survey data when making decisions that impact young people and when determining how best to support them during what can be a challenging time in their lives,” Callister said.
Youth Survey 2024 is open from April to August and takes 20 minutes to complete.
Respondents can complete the survey online, either through arrangements with participating schools or groups or individually through Mission Australia’s website.
“Strong levels of participation in Mission Australia’s Youth Survey will ensure the views of young people are comprehensively captured and their voices heard,” Callister said.
“I encourage community groups, schools and sporting organisations to publicise the survey and support young people to get involved.”