Mission Australia is calling on Benalla's young people to complete a youth survey

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 across the country.

This year in the midst of the COVID-19 public health challenge, Mission Australia says the Youth Survey continues to be an important platform for young people to have their voices heard.

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“In this rapidly changing world, young voices matter. Now more than ever, we need to hear from Benalla young people about the issues that are affecting them,” Mission Australia state leader Michele Leonard said.

“During this period where many young people are adapting to change, it’s important that they have meaningful opportunities like the Youth Survey to share their thoughts, concerns and aspirations.

“Their responses are important in shaping policy and service changes that affect them.

“In times of increasing uncertainty it is crucial we take the time to listen to what young people have to say on issues that affect them, their networks and our nation.

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“We hope that during a time when so many young people will be self-isolating, that they could spare 15 minutes of their time to participate in our Youth Survey,” Ms Leonard said.

“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.”

The Youth Survey 2019 was completed by more than 25 000 young people aged between 15 and 19 years, including 4445 young people in Victoria.

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Last year, young Victorians nominated mental health, the environment and equity and discrimination as the most important issues facing Australia today.

It also found that only about one in 15 (seven per cent) young Victorians feel they had a voice all of the time in public affairs.

“In a climate where young people are actively seeking out opportunities to make their views known, the Youth Survey 2020 offers a safe and reliable platform to speak up,” Ms Leonard said.

“Their valuable insights provide up-to-date evidence to inform advocacy and policy change on the issues that affect their lives.”

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Ms Leonard said this year the survey would 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,” she said.

“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 the Mission Australia website.

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“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,” Ms Leonard said.

“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.”

Mission Australia’s Youth Survey 2020 is open to all young people aged 15 to 19 years old who are living in Australia.

To take part in the survey, visit this link.

You can also share the word using #YouthSurvey2020

This year, the survey closes on August 14, with results to be analysed and released before the end of the year.

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