Mission Australia is urging Canberra’s young to speak up now more than ever, about their aspirations and concerns in the Youth Survey 2020.
The annual survey is now in its 19th year, asking young people aged 15-19 to express what they believe are the biggest issues in Australia.
Mission Australia regional leader, Daniel Strickland, said amid a pandemic, this year’s survey was more important than ever.
“This year has brought with it new challenges which we have had to navigate as a nation. An unprecedented bushfire season, followed by the COVID-19 pandemic has not been easy for many of us, let alone our young people,” he said.
“As you would expect, early responses to Youth Survey 2020 so far show that COVID-19 is coming up as a major national issue affecting young people. We are also seeing how experiences of the pandemic are impacting individually on young people’s concerns, particularly their mental health.”
The online survey has a focus on mental health and wellbeing, while also including new questions around discrimination, transition to employment and financial concerns.
These questions follow the 2019 survey results, showing young people had identified the environment, mental health and equity and discrimination as the most pressing issues at the time.
The survey will be open until 14 August and results are expected to be released in November.
Mr Strickland encouraged as many young people as possible to get involved and have their voice heard.
“This year’s Youth Survey results will provide up to date evidence to ensure young people are adequately supported through services and broader policy changes.
“We must not only pay attention to the issues affecting young people, but also look to young people for the ways in which they seek help, for their aspirations and their goals, to ensure they are adequately supported to thrive amid whatever life throws at them.
“As we approach the closing date, we hope to see even more young people participate in the survey online, and encourage more schools and groups to join in.”
For more information, or to take part in the survey visit www.missionaustralia.com.au/youthsurvey.
