Teens get their say

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 to have their say.
Now in its 19th year, the Mission Australia Youth Survey provides an important annual snapshot into the experiences and views of young people across Australia.
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.
Mission Australia’s State Director Nada Nasser said: “In this quickly changing world, young voices matter”.
“Now more than ever, we want to hear from young people about the issues that affect them in 2020,” she said.
“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.
“In times of increasing uncertainty it is important we take the time to listen to what young people have to say on issues that affect them, their networks and our nation.
“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 the Youth Survey.
“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.”
Last year, young people nominated mental health, the environment and equity and discrimination as the most important issues facing Australia today. The survey also found that around one in 15 (6.9%) young people in NSW felt they have a voice 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. It will also ask new questions around discrimination and transition to employment, along with financial concerns and exclusion.
Ms Nasser said with increased physical distancing and self-isolation, they’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 survey.
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 missionaustralia.com.au/youthsurvey. Share the word using #YouthSurvey2020
This year, the survey will be open until August 14.