Final chance for youth to have their say

MISSION Australia have issued a final call for young people to speak up and share their thoughts, personal concerns and values in Youth Survey 2023, before it closes today (Friday, August 11).

The annual survey collects responses from young people aged 15-19, with nearly 20,000 taking part last year.

As the largest survey of its kind, the Youth Survey provides a valuable snapshot of what young Australians are thinking and feeling, with results used to inform Mission Australia’s work, government policy and decision makers.

Mission Australia chief executive officer Sharon Callister urged young people to speak up and share what matters most to them.

“Through Youth Survey, young people can directly influence and instigate change,” she said.

“We value young people’s input via our Youth Survey, and it provides crucial evidence to allow us to advocate on their behalf.”

In 2022, young people said the environment (51.0 per cent), equity and discrimination (35.9 per cent) and mental health (33.9 per cent) were the top three issues of concern facing the nation.

One in 20 (5.9 per cent) young people or their families were unable to afford bills or car expenses and a similar proportion (6.4 per cent) sought financial help from family, friends or charity.

Last year’s survey was also the first time where participants were able to suggest solutions to issues that were important to them.

Questions asked in the survey include housing and financial situation, employment and mental health.

“It’s important that we listen to what young people are saying and respond to their ideas to improve their world,” Ms Callister said.

“I encourage parents, churches, schools, sporting and community groups to help us share the word and encourage as many young people as possible to participate in Youth Survey.

“It only takes a few minutes to complete, and you can include as much or as little information as you want. The more young people participate, the more robust the data will be.”

The Mission Australia Youth Survey 2023 will close on August 11, with results published in November.

To fill out the survey or for more information, head to missionaustralia.com.au/what-we-do/research-impact-policy-advocacy/youth-survey