Mission Australia is calling on all young Tasmanians to get involved and highlight important issues facing their lives by having their say in the 2008 Mission Australia Youth Survey.

In launching Mission Australia’s annual youth survey, Tasmanian State Director Noel Mundy said the survey gives Tasmania’s young people, between the ages of 11 and 24, the opportunity to have a voice, allowing for improvement in services and planning for future research and resources.

“In 2007, when asked to rank 14 issues by level of importance, body image was ranked most frequently in the top three by 32.4% of Tasmanian respondents,” Mr Mundy said.

“Suicide was young Tasmanians’ second major concern at 27.6 per cent while family conflict was third at 26.1 per cent.

“Concern about body image among young Tasmanians has risen since the 2006 survey, when it finished the fourth most pressing issue at 27.5 per cent.

“The range of concerns – from stress and abuse to depression, suicide and body image – suggests new levels of turbulence affecting the already challenging transition from youth to adulthood.”

Mr Mundy said the youth survey is a national survey organised by Mission Australia which aims to get a richer understanding of young people’s thoughts and opinions.

“The results of the survey assist Mission Australia and others working with young people, including all levels of government, to evaluate and improve their programs, services and projects for young people,” he said.

“For a number of years one of the key issues identified by young Tasmanians in the survey was depression and suicide and as a result of this feedback Mission Australia has been able to deliver the Stay on Track program to year nine students across southern Tasmania.

“The survey also provides timely information for young people themselves and those interested and involved in youth issues and the delivery of services and programs for them.”

The survey is available at all Mission Australia sites, secondary schools, TAFE facilities and libraries statewide and can also be completed online at www.missionaustralia.com.au/youthsurvey.
The survey closes on Friday, 27th June.

ENDS
For more information or to arrange an interview:
Lucinda Bray, Beyond PR, 6223 3333 or 0438 280 486