Australia’s cost-of-living crisis dominates the concerns of young people nationwide, with more than half saying they consider it the number one issue.
Released today, Mission Australia’s Youth Survey Report 2024, found the top concerns of young people over the past year have been the cost of living (56%); climate change/the environment (27%); violence, safety and crime (25%); and mental health (23%).
It is the first time in the survey’s history that financial pressure has featured as the top concern of young Australians, more than doubling in the last two years and overtaking last year’s leader – the environment.
Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said while climate change remains an important issue for young people, it now takes a back seat to the urgent financial challenges many are facing due to Australia’s cost of living crisis.
“It is clear financial struggles are considerably impacting young lives and their views about our country,” she said.
“It points to the need for increased financial support to help alleviate financial hardship. Boosting the rates of JobSeeker, Youth Allowance and Commonwealth Rent Assistance is the best way to ensure help reaches those who need it most.”
A National Australia Bank survey shows that nearly every Australian is cutting back on expenses, whether it be on entertainment or life's basics like food.
A separate survey by the Westpac Melbourne institute survey of consumer sentiment found that over the past year, about 50% of those surveyed report their finances have got worse – a peak not seen since the global financial crisis, and one that has lasted longer.
Urgent need for more mental health support
The report also highlighted the ongoing struggles of young Australians dealing with mental health issues, with more than one in five (22%) experiencing high levels of psychological distress.
One in five young Australians said they considered mental health as their biggest personal challenge in the past year. Nearly one in three (30%) were concerned or extremely concerned about coping with stress, while one in five (21%) felt lonely most or all of the time.
“It’s deeply concerning that so many young people are struggling with stress, anxiety, loneliness, and depression,” Callister said. “This stark reality highlights the urgent need for increased mental health support and mental health awareness.”
Violence, safety and crime (25%) was the other big mover, soaring into third place up from sixth in 2023 at 18%, and 10% in 2022.
Australia’s housing crisis remains a big concern
For the third year in a row, housing and homelessness (17%) continues to feature prominently in the top 10 national issues.
“Young people shouldn’t have to worry about where they are going to sleep tonight,” Callister said. “They should be thinking about education, friends, family and their future from the stability of a safe, secure and affordable home.
A recent study by National Shelter and SGS Economics and Planning revealed that rental affordability has collapsed for several groups, including single JobSeekers, pensioners, single parents, and part-time workers. Every Australian capital city and many regional areas have become unaffordable, with some regions labelled “critically unaffordable” – a new category introduced due to the worsening inflation crisis – where rent consumes 75% or more of individuals' income.
Mission Australia is now calling for “a far greater” investment in social and affordable housing, as well as a stronger focus on preventing homelessness and more youth housing options like Youth Foyers.
Discrimination levels highlight equity challenges
With three in 10 (30%) respondents personally experiencing discrimination in the past year, an alarming 42% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and 69% of gender diverse respondents experienced discrimination.
“Yet again, our survey this year revealed that discrimination and inequality unfairly and disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and young people who are gender diverse,” Callister said.
“Australia has a long way to go towards greater inclusivity, support and reconciliation. There is a need for greater support and inclusivity for marginalised groups.”
While more than half of young people perceived alcohol and drug use as being among the big national issues Australia grapples with, they were less problematic in their own lives and communities.
“Young people are clearly aware of the harmful effects of these substances and are thinking about how these issues impact everyone,” Callister said. “To better support those young people who are vulnerable and misusing substances, we call for greater Government investment in youth-specific rehabilitation programs.”
Callister said empowering young people to start their journey to adulthood on a solid footing can transform lives.
“Their opinions should be at the heart of designing programs and housing for them,” she said. “By listening to these voices and addressing the issues they raise, we can work together to build a more inclusive and supportive Australia to grow up and thrive in.”