The 24th annual Mission Australia Youth Survey is now online - and this time the opinions of 14-year-olds are been sought for the first time. 

The national survey of 14- to 19-year-olds informs government and organisations on what problems are at the forefront of youth's minds, with the results also available by state.

It covers a wide range of topics, including questions on mental health and well-being, sources of support and community connections, housing and financial situation, climate change, study and work, and hopes for the future.

Last year, 3,500 NSW youth responded, with the cost of living crisis being paramount to many young people.

Results of the 2024 Mission Australia Youth Survey for NSW. Graphic supplied. 

“Listening to young people allows us to understand the challenges they face, and it’s important given that their voices are often missing from discussions that directly impact them,” Mission Australia State Director Di Kapera said. 

This is the first year 14-year-olds are being included in the survey. 

“Fourteen-year-olds, like their older peers, are thinking about their future and what work and educational opportunities they want to pursue,” Ms Kapera said.

“We’re looking forward to getting their perspective on the world." 

The survey is open until 15 August. Once the results have been evaluated, they will be published and shared with government organisations, schools and the public in November. 

"We use the results to try and get funding for services and programs and let the voices of our young people be heard," Area Manager for Central West NSW Tanya Molloy said 

Ms Molloy said some issues from 2024 will continue to follow on in 2025. 

"I anticipate still seeing homelessness and housing mentioned, as we know there's a big shortfall. The housing crisis is affecting a lot of people.

"And unfortunately because of that, we will also likely see the impacts on mental health and wellbeing," Ms Molloy said. 

A link to the survey can be found here. It takes around 20 minutes to complete.