Youth Survey 2025: Cost of living concerns hit record high
Young people across Australia want stronger action on the cost of living crisis, mental health support, and the environment, according to the nation’s largest annual survey of young people.
More than 17,000 young people aged 14 to 19 took part in this year’s Mission Australia Youth Survey, revealing the top issues they believe Australia must address are cost of living (64%), mental health (29%), climate change and the environment (27%) and housing and homelessness (25%).
It’s the second year in a row cost of living was the top issue, continuing a strong long-term shift in what young people view as the most important issue in Australia.
Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said young people’s concern about the issue has climbed sharply; 31% of respondents in 2023 reported that it was a key concern; in 2024, 56% said it was and in 2025, 64% reported it was – the highest level since the question was first asked in 2010.
It’s a record we never wanted to see broken.
“Young people are telling us that the strain of rising prices and not having money for basic essentials is taking a toll on their mental health and their outlook on life.”
Concern about housing and homelessness is also trending in the wrong direction, with the proportion of young people nominating it as an issue of national concern doubling since 2022.
“One in four young people are worried about housing and homelessness, they are witnessing and experiencing it at higher levels than ever before,” Ms Callister said.
“Young people are watching their friends and family struggle to pay bills or afford stable housing, and it’s impacting them.
“This points to an urgent need for more investment in social and affordable housing, youth-specific housing – like Youth Foyers; and practical supports that can make a real difference.”
Education and wellbeing on the line
Mental health is both a major national issue and a personal concern for many young people.
Two in five (39%) young people reported stress related to their mental health and wellbeing.
Nearly one in five (19%) reported experiencing high levels of psychological distress in the weeks before the survey.
“Stress and anxiety are affecting young people’s education, work and daily lives,” Ms Callister said.
“It’s causing them to miss school, impacting their confidence and motivation. Young people want access to support and resources so they can get help before the issues escalate.”
When comparing this year’s results to 2023 and 2024, there is some good news.
Hearing our young people
Several wellbeing indicators have shown improvement, including reductions in loneliness and psychological distress, and more young people are saying they feel a sense of control over their lives and positivity about the future.
“We want our young people to know that we are listening and are grateful to them sharing a part of their lives with us,” Ms Callister said.
“Youth Survey highlights the complex realities facing young people across Australia.
“From economic pressures to mental health challenges and experiences of discrimination, young people are navigating a range of personal and societal issues.
“Their responses reveal not only the difficulties they encounter, but also their aspirations, values and desire to shape a positive future.
“We urge governments, schools, communities and families to reflect on these findings and to work in genuine partnership with young people.
“By listening deeply and acting with purpose, we can build a future where every young person feels supported, included and empowered to reach their potential.”