The results of the largest annual survey of young people in Australia were released yesterday by Mission Australia. The National Survey of Young Australians 2009 obtained the views of almost 48,000 young people across Australia and found that the young people rank drugs, suicide and body image as the most concerning issues they face.

The study looked at three specific age groups, 11-14-year-olds, 15-19-year-olds and 20-24-year-olds. The study found that for the 11-14-year-olds, drugs were the greatest concern, while for 15-19-year-olds body image was the greatest concern, and for 20-24-year-olds stress and depression were the greatest concerns. Females were more concerned about physical/sexual abuse then males, and males were more concerned about drugs and alcohol then females.

When in need of advice young people reported turning primarily to friends first and parents second, and the young people reported most admiring family, and valuing family above friendships and being independent.

Mission Australia spokesperson Anne Hampshire said the concerns of the youth highlight the need for greater education. “Our survey suggests that 11-14 year old Australians don’t feel equipped to deal with the issue of drugs,” she said. “They not only have a significant level of personal concern about the issue but are also worried about the impact of drugs on friends, families and their community.”

The 130 page report which examines the nation and each state in detail can be found here.

Writer Tristan Boyd, Editor Dr Ramesh Manocha.