Mission Australia calls on young people to have their say

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Mission Australia’s annual Youth Survey is open now and the charity is urging young people aged 14-19 to share their views in the largest survey of the nation’s young people.

Now in its 24th year, the Youth Survey lets young people tell us what they think about life in Australia. The survey gives them the chance to share their opinions on the issues impacting the country, open up about their aspirations and share their lived experience.

In 2024, more than 17,400 young people 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 top issues in Australia.

Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said the Youth Survey shines a light on what young people are thinking about the country, their communities and their own lives.

“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,” Ms Callister.

“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.

“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 are having on young people and their families.

“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.”

Results of the survey will be published in November and are 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,” Ms Callister said.

“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, we’ve also expanded the survey to include 14-year-olds, as we want to allow for 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.”

The survey focuses on a wide range of 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.

Youth Survey 2025 is open from April 10 to August 15 and takes about 20 minutes to complete.

Respondents can complete the survey online, either through arrangements with participating schools or groups or individually through Mission Australia’s website. Go to www.missionaustralia.com.au/youthsurvey and spread the word using #YouthSurvey2025.