Mission Australia has opened up its youth survey for 2020, calling on young people aged 15 to 19 to have their say about what affects them.

Mayo MP Rebekha Sharkie has encouraged young people on the Fleurieu to get involved.

“If you're a young person or you know a young person, please encourage them to take part in Mission Australia’s youth survey,” she says.

“Now in its 19th year, the Mission Australia Youth Survey continues to be the largest annual survey of young people of its kind in Australia. 

“It is considered extremely reputable and is relied on by many not-for-profits. Having say about the needs of young people is more important than ever.”

The Youth Survey enables young people to share their values, challenges and ambitions and to speak up about the issues that they care about.

It is widely used by Governments, NGOs and community groups to develop policies and youth programs. 

Mission Australia CEO James Toomey urges young people across Australia to get involved and speak up in the charity’s annual Youth Survey.

“Last year we heard that many young people did not have the avenues to speak up on the issues that matter to them. The Youth Survey 2020 provides a forum for young people to highlight their personal aspirations and concerns, and express the issues they think are important in Australia today. 

“In a climate where young people are actively seeking out opportunities to make their views known, the Youth Survey 2020 offers a safe and reliable platform to speak up. 

“Their valuable insights provide up-to-date evidence to inform advocacy and policy change on the issues that affect their lives.”

The survey closes on 14 August, with results to be analysed and released before the end of the year.

More than 25,000 young people participated in the 2019 Youth Survey. 

They reported mental health, the environment and equity and discrimination as the three most important issues in Australia today. 

For more information and to take part in the survey go to the Mission Australia website.