Mission Australia is calling on young people aged 15-19 across Australia to have their say in Youth Survey 2022 before it closes on 31 August.
Youth Survey is the largest of its kind and last year more than 20,000 young people shared their personal concerns, aspirations, and views on broader issues.
In 2021, young people said the most important issues in Australia were the COVID-19 pandemic, the environment and equity and discrimination.
Alarmingly, one in 20 of young people surveyed said they had experienced homelessness for the first time during the pandemic.
Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said life in a post-COVID world is rapidly changing and highlighted the importance of listening to what young people are saying.
“For more than 20 years Mission Australia’s Youth Survey has provided a critical platform for young people to communicate what is going on in their world,” she said.
“We know from last year’s results that they were heavily impacted by lockdowns and were severely affected in a range of ways including mental health, education and employment.”
The results of the Youth Survey are used by governments, informs policies, and gives insights to families and individuals hoping to gain further understanding of what young people are thinking and experiencing.
“One in 20 participants told us last year they were homeless for the first time during COVID-19, which is completely unacceptable,” Mrs Callister said.
“Find your nearest young person and ask them if they’ve participated. Every participant counts and makes a difference.
“Many don’t feel heard, so this is a great opportunity to have a say and be part of change. The more respondents we have, the more insightful and robust the results will be.
“Most of us know someone aged between 15 and 19, so let them know Mission Australia needs their help – the survey takes less than 15 minutes.”
Mission Australia’s Youth Survey 2022 is open to all people aged 15 to 19 who live in Australia. It can be accessed through the Mission Australia website.
