Mission Australia’s Youth Survey 2020 is open

Mission Australia’s Youth Survey 2020 is now open, with the charity extending the opening period to encourage as many young people as possible aged 15-19 across Australia to have their say.

Now in its 19th year, the Mission Australia Youth Survey is the largest online survey of its kind in Australia and provides an important annual snapshot into the experiences and views of young people.

Mission Australia CEO James Toomey said: “In this rapidly changing world, young voices matter. Now more than ever, we need to hear from young people about the issues that are affecting them. During this period of unprecedented changes, it’s important that young people still have meaningful opportunities like the Youth Survey to share their thoughts, concerns and aspirations to shape policy and service changes that are important to them.

“Last year, we heard that many young people felt they did not have the avenues to speak up on the issues that matter to them. The Youth Survey 2020 provides a forum for young people to highlight their personal aspirations and concerns, and express the issues they think are important in Australia today.”

In the Mission Australia Youth Survey Report 2019, young people nominated mental health, the environment and equity and discrimination as the most important issues facing Australia today. It also found that less than one in 10 (7.2%) young people felt they have a say all of the time in public affairs. 

This year, the survey will continue to have a focus on mental health and wellbeing, with a further look into how young people seek help. The Youth Survey will also ask new questions around discrimination and transition to employment, along with financial concerns and exclusion.

 “The Youth Survey 2020 is the biggest survey of its kind and is an important source of information for organisations, governments, families and individuals to get a picture of what our young people are thinking and experiencing, and how to best support young Australians as they transition into adulthood.

“Young people can record their responses online, either through arrangements with participating schools or groups, or individually through our website. We are mindful that at this time, schools are having to adapt tremendously and we are thankful for all that our education sector is doing for our young people, and acknowledge that this may affect the participation in our survey. 

“At a time of increased physical distancing and self-isolation, we’re also encouraging sports teams, community youth groups, religious groups and community service organisations to communicate to their young people to get involved in the Youth Survey,” said Mr Toomey.

Mission Australia’s Youth Survey 2020 is open to all young people aged 15-19 years-old who are living in Australia. To take part in the survey, visit www.missionaustralia.com.au/youthsurvey. Share the word using #YouthSurvey2020