Media Releases

22 Oct 2009 - Digital age, safety and alcohol pose challenge for young

The Minister for Youth Kate Ellis says a new report shows young people are making a vital contribution to Australia, but they're also facing new risks and challenges.

Ms Ellis today released The State of Australia's Young People: a report on the social, economic, health and family lives of young people.

"Most young people are well educated, have close relationships with their families and friends and contribute to society through study, work and volunteering," Ms Ellis said.

"But the report also shows there are serious risks to their health, safety and wellbeing."

Amongst the findings of the wide-ranging report:
- Teenagers aged 15 - 19 have the highest hospitalisation rate for acute intoxication of all age groups and one in five 16-year-olds have used illicit drugs
- One in three sexually active young people report experiencing unwanted sex
- One in four young people are living with a mental illness
- Almost a quarter of young people feel unsafe walking alone at night and young people are more likely to be the victim of a crime but less likely to report it
- Nine out of ten 17-year-olds use a mobile phone
- Nine out of ten families have an Internet connection.

The State of Australia's Young People shows that some young people are at greater risk of falling behind than others, particularly those who are Indigenous, from a low socio-economic background, aren't studying or working or have a disability.

The findings are based on national data sources, existing literature, interviews and focus groups with young people and people in the youth sector.

"This report provides further evidence on which to base the work the Government is doing to improve the lives of young people," Ms Ellis said.

"We're investing to solve many of the problems young people face with initiatives like our $125.8 million Cyber Safety Plan, the $35.6 million National Youth Mental Health Initiative Headspace and the $277 million Compact with Young Australians, which guarantees training places for every young person who wishes to up-skill.

"We're also talking with young people through the Australian Youth Forum," she said.

"Focusing on improving the lives of young Australians delivers great social, economic and community benefits and means a happier and healthier country into the future."

The full report is available at www.youth.gov.au.