The charity urges 14 to 19-year-olds to share their views about life in Australia in the largest survey of the nation’s youth.
Now in its 24th year, the Youth Survey gives young people the chance to share their opinions on the issues impacting the country, open up about their aspirations and share their lived experience.
“We need to listen to young people so we can tailor solutions to the problems they face, and yet we don’t often hear from them directly,” Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said. “The Youth Survey provides a much-needed outlet for young people to use their voice, and it gives us a unique insight into young people’s hopes for the future.”
Last year, more than 17,400 youth respondents completed the survey, naming cost of living (56%), climate change and the environment (27%), violence, safety and crime (25%) and mental health (23%) as the nation’s top issues.
“In 2024, for the first time, cost of living was the number one issue of concern for respondents, reflecting the ongoing impact that the rising cost of housing and essentials is having on young people and their families,” Callister noted. “With Australia’s housing emergency continuing, the 2025 results will likely reflect the challenging circumstances that many families are facing as they struggle to keep a roof over their heads.”
Survey results will be released in November and shared with government, non-government organisations, schools and the public.
“The Youth Survey data is used by a range of decision makers and stakeholders to inform policies and the development of programs and services that impact young people,” Callister added. “We want as many young people as possible to participate in the Youth Survey, so we can make sure we are hearing from young people from a range of backgrounds and experiences across the country.”
This year, Mission Australia has opened the survey to 14-year-olds, as the charity also wants Year Nine students to participate and share their perspectives.
“Fourteen-year-olds, like their peers in Year 10, are thinking about their future and what work and educational opportunities they want to pursue. We’re very keen to hear from them,” Callister said.
The survey focuses on various topics, including questions on mental health and wellbeing, sources of support and community connections, housing and financial situation, climate change, study and work and hopes for the future.
Respondents can complete the survey online until 15 August, either through arrangements with participating schools or groups or individually on Mission Australia’s website.
Read also: Young people are key to NSW alternative care arrangements ban
Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.
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