Brisbane, January 19 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Youth Representative Report 2024, released by UN Youth Australia, identified education, climate change, mental health, and financial security as the most pressing issues for young Australians. The report, which gathered insights from over 2,000 young people during the annual ‘Listening Tour,’ includes perspectives shared by Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast’s (MCCGC) Youth Advisory Group (YAG) in July.
The ‘Listening Tour’ brought together youth from across Australia, including both rural and urban areas, to discuss their experiences and challenges, as well as their hopes for the future. These conversations revealed four key concerns that resonated strongly with young people nationwide.
Education emerged as a top priority, with young Australians advocating for an inclusive, equitable, and adaptable education system. The need for educational institutions to promote critical thinking, civic engagement, and social cohesion was emphasized, alongside a call for policies that prepare youth for the challenges ahead.
Climate change was also highlighted as an urgent issue, with a demand for immediate action to address environmental challenges. Young people called for increased investment in sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels and improvements to recycling systems, including a nationwide soft plastics recycling initiative to reduce landfill waste.
Mental health was another significant concern, with young Australians stressing the importance of accessible care. There was a particular focus on increasing access to mental health services for people with disabilities and ensuring that information on available support services, such as those for victims of domestic violence, is both accessible and transparent.
Concerns over poverty and financial security were also raised, with young people identifying job instability, affordable housing, and economic opportunities as key challenges. They urged for improvements in education funding and student debt policies, which could ease financial stress and encourage more youth to pursue higher education.
A notable achievement of this year’s report is the reintroduction of state and territory sections, reflecting the increased number of participants. This addition provides valuable insights into regional issues, allowing for a more tailored approach to youth concerns. For instance, young Queenslanders highlighted education, mental health, and gender inequality as key areas of impact, while also expressing concerns about climate change, the rising cost of living, and poverty.
Queensland youth also voiced hopes for gender equality in pay, consistency in government policies for those with mental health disabilities, and the inclusion of practical education, such as civic education and online safety courses, in school curriculums.
MCCGC’s Youth Advisory Group’s participation in this important consultation reinforces the commitment to empowering young voices and advocating for meaningful change. Addressing these issues is a crucial opportunity for policymakers, educators, and communities to collaborate and build a better, more inclusive future for all Australians.