Youth Survey reveals cost of living number one concern for young people

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Mission Australia has released its 2024 Youth Survey Report, shedding light on the concerns and experiences of young Australians.

More than 17,400 young people aged 15-19 responded to Australia’s largest youth survey, revealing the top national issues were cost of living (56%); climate change and the environment (27%); violence, safety and crime (25%); and mental health (23%).

It is the first-time cost of living has featured as the number one issue, more than doubling in the last two years and overtaking last year’s leader - the environment.

Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said previous leading issues of national concern such as the environment, reduced in significance when people were struggling to make ends meet amidst rising living costs.

“It is clear financial struggles are considerably impacting young lives and their views about our country,” she said.

“It points to the need for increased financial support to help alleviate financial hardship. Boosting the rates of JobSeeker, Youth Allowance and Commonwealth Rent Assistance is the best way to ensure help reaches those who need it most.

“While climate change remains an important issue for young people, ranking second this year, it currently takes a back seat to the urgent financial challenges many are facing due to Australia’s cost of living crisis.”

Not only was mental health a major concern facing Australia according to almost one in four young people, more than one in five (22%) young people experienced high psychological distress and one in five considered mental health as their biggest personal challenge in the past year.

Nearly one in three (30%) were concerned or extremely concerned about coping with stress, while one in five (21%) felt lonely most or all of the time.

“It’s deeply concerning that so many young people are struggling with stress, anxiety, loneliness, and depression,” Ms Callister said.

“This stark reality highlights the urgent need for increased mental health support and mental health awareness.”

Violence, safety and crime (25%) was the other big mover, soaring into third place up from sixth in 2023 at 18%, and 10% in 2022.

As it has for the last three years, housing and homelessness (17%) continues to feature prominently in the top 10 national issues.

“Young people shouldn’t have to worry about where they are going to sleep tonight,” Ms Callister said.

"They should be thinking about education, friends, family and their future from the stability of a safe, secure and affordable home.

“Young people know Australia is facing a housing and homelessness emergency, which is why we need far greater investment in social and affordable housing, more focus on preventing homelessness and more youth housing options like Youth Foyers.”

With three in 10 (30%) respondents personally experiencing discrimination in the past year, an alarming 42% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and 69% of gender diverse respondents experienced discrimination.

“Yet again, our survey this year revealed that discrimination and inequality unfairly and disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and young people who are gender diverse,” Ms Callister said.

“Australia has a long way to go towards greater inclusivity, support and reconciliation. There is a need for greater support and inclusivity for marginalised groups.”

While more than half of young people perceived alcohol and drug use as being among the big national issues Australia grapples with, they were less problematic in their own lives and communities.

“Young people are clearly aware of the harmful effects of these substances and are thinking about how these issues impact everyone,” Ms Callister said.

“To better support those young people who are vulnerable and misusing substances, we call for greater Government investment in youth-specific rehabilitation programs.”

The insights from the annual Youth Survey are shared with parents, educators, policymakers, community services and those who support young people.

Empowering young people to start their journey to adulthood on a solid footing can transform lives,” Ms Callister said.

“Their opinions should be at the heart of designing programs and housing for them.

“By listening to these voices and addressing the issues they raise, we can work together to build a more inclusive and supportive Australia to grow up and thrive in.”

Youth Survey Report 2024