There’s still time - Mission Australia’s Youth Survey closes soon

Ask any parent or guardian what their young person was most worried about in 2020 and they would probably say COVID-19. For 20 years, the largest survey of its kind has been the barometer of what young people are experiencing, thinking and feeling.
Last year, 25,800 young people participated in the survey including 6669 in NSW. Youth Survey 2020 revealed for the first time, equity and discrimination was the top national issue, increasing by more than 60 per cent since 2019. COVID-19 was identified as the second issue of most concern, followed by mental health.
Young people from NSW nominated equity and discrimination, COVID-19 and the environment as the most important issues facing Australia today.
Mission Australia State Director Nada Nassar said the survey plays a critical role in understanding what many young people are thinking.
“In 2021 as the impacts of COVID-19 become clearer, it is important for NSW’s young people to express their aspirations, issues and concerns,” she said.
This year’s Youth Survey includes focus questions to reveal insights into young people’s housing situation, disability and experiences of discrimination, along with new questions to better understand the impact of COVID-19 and stress management.
“Young people have endured a lot during the past 18 months, including disruptions to their education, facing fresh barriers to employment, housing instability, mental health challenges and natural disasters,” Ms Nassar said.
“The results provide invaluable insights and an important source of information frequently cited by organisations and governments, and often tapped into by families and individuals to develop a picture of what our young people are thinking and experiencing.”
For those who would like to have their say, time is running out - Mission Australia’s Youth Survey 2021 is open until 9th August to all young people aged 15-19 years-old who are living in Australia.
It only takes 20 minutes to complete, with results expected to be released in early December.
“We are calling on the community to help us spread the word – whether that’s sports teams, youth groups, schools or churches. Encourage your young people to jump on the Mission
Australia website, fill out the survey and tell us how they are feeling, said Ms Nassar”
To take part in the survey, visit www.missionaustralia.com.au/youthsurvey. Share the word using #YouthSurvey2021