Youth Survey reveals cost of living as top concern for young people
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A new survey by Mission Australia has revealed that the cost of living has emerged as the top concern for young Australians, surpassing climate change for the first time.
The 2024 Youth Survey, which polled over 17,400 young people aged 15-19, painted a sobering picture of the challenges facing the nation’s youth.
“It is clear financial struggles are considerably impacting young lives and their views about our country,” said Sharon Callister, CEO of Mission Australia. “It points to the need for increased financial support to help alleviate financial hardship.”
The survey also highlighted the significant mental health burden on young people, with nearly a quarter experiencing high psychological distress and one in five considering mental health as their biggest personal challenge.
“It’s deeply concerning that so many young people are struggling with stress, anxiety, loneliness, and depression,” Callister said. “This stark reality highlights the urgent need for increased mental health support and mental health awareness.”
Key findings from the survey include:
- Cost of living is the number 1 national issue for youth at 56%.
- Climate change and the environment is number 2 at 27%.
- Violence, safety and crime is number 3 at 25% – rising significantly from the previous year.
- Mental health comes in at number 4 at 23%.
- Housing and homelessness remained a persistent issue, with 17% of respondents identifying it as a major concern.
- Discrimination continued to be a significant problem, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and gender-diverse individuals.
Callister emphasised the importance of listening to the voices of young people and addressing their concerns to build a more inclusive and supportive Australia.
“By listening to these voices and addressing the issues they raise, we can work together to build a more inclusive and supportive Australia to grow up and thrive in,” she said.
Related article: Student debt relief: New repayment thresholds offer cost of living support
