Synopsis
A recent report reveals that young Australians are struggling with financial pressures, mental health issues, and declining trust in political institutions, emphasizing the need for policy reforms.Key Takeaways
- Cost of living is the top concern for youth.
- 30% of young women report high psychological distress.
- Social media impacts mental health negatively.
- Financial burdens from student loans frustrate graduates.
- Young Australians seek policy reform to address economic issues.
Sydney, March 13 (NationPress) A recent report released on Thursday has revealed the increasing hardships faced by young Australians, who are grappling with intensifying financial pressure, deteriorating mental health, and a decline in trust towards political institutions. The study, conducted by researchers from the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre at Curtin University, indicates that the cost of living has now eclipsed all other issues, emerging as their primary concern.
The report, which surveyed Australians aged 14 to 25, illuminates their most significant challenges and the transformations they seek. In addition to economic struggles, mental health and education reform are highlighted, with an emphasis on their capacity to foster social change, particularly in the realms of discrimination, racism, and gender inequality.
Co-author of the report, Prof. Astghik Mavisakalyan, has urged for policy reforms to better assist young individuals facing financial uncertainty and escalating mental health issues.
Alarmingly, 30% of young women report experiencing high levels of psychological distress, which is double the rate of their male counterparts. Furthermore, social isolation continues to pose a significant challenge, even in an age dominated by social media, Mavisakalyan noted.
The financial burden is particularly severe, with one-third of young Australians identifying the cost of living as a personal strain and 56% citing it as one of the nation’s most urgent issues, according to a report from Xinhua news agency.
Concerns about the impact of social media on mental health are also raised, as frequent users are more susceptible to experiencing anxiety and stress. While the government’s proposed nationwide social media ban aims to mitigate these adverse effects, experts warn of potential unintended consequences, especially for at-risk groups.
Moreover, Australia’s higher education system is under scrutiny, with young people expressing frustration over the increasing financial burden of student loans and the Job-ready Graduates Package. This has deviated from its original intention of ensuring equitable access to education, resulting in graduates facing significant debt, reduced disposable income, and heightened financial insecurity, as stated by co-author Prof. Mike Dockery from the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre.
