Australia’s Youth Face a Future Defined by Anxiety: The $22.3 Billion Cost of Inaction
Just 30% of Australian teenagers report feeling excited and hopeful about the next five years. This isn’t a fleeting moment of adolescent angst; it’s a stark warning sign. A new report reveals a growing wave of anxiety among young Australians, fueled by concerns about financial security, housing affordability, and a rapidly changing world – a crisis that’s already costing the nation over $22 billion annually in lost potential and reactive interventions.
The Rising Tide of Youth Anxiety
The State of Australia’s Children Report, compiled by UNICEF Australia and the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth, paints a concerning picture. Based on over 100 datasets and input from 2,000+ children, the report highlights a clear decline in life satisfaction as adolescents age, with 16-17 year olds reporting significantly lower wellbeing than their 12-13 year old peers. This isn’t simply about the pressures of school; it’s a systemic issue impacting their outlook on the future.
Seventeen-year-old Ashwini Aravinthan, a UNICEF Australia young ambassador, articulates the core worry: “It’s about entrance into uni, then: ‘Oh, am I doing a good degree that’s going to give me a secure job and financial security?’ Financial security inextricably links to housing and affordability.” The constant barrage of news and social media highlighting the housing crisis only amplifies this pressure, creating a cycle of anxiety for those on the cusp of adulthood.
The Economic Burden of Neglect
The financial implications of failing to support young Australians are staggering. The Minderoo Foundation estimates the cost of ‘late intervention’ – addressing problems *after* they’ve escalated – has ballooned from $15.2 billion in 2019 to $22.3 billion today. That’s $838 per Australian, or $2,704 per child and young person. Where is this money going? A massive 43% is spent on child protection, followed by significant investment in youth crime and unemployment.
As Minderoo Foundation co-founder Nicola Forrest succinctly puts it, “The science is unequivocal: the first five years shape a lifetime.” But the need for support doesn’t end in early childhood. Adolescence is a critical period, and neglecting the mental health and wellbeing of teenagers has profound economic consequences.
Key Concerns of the Next Generation
What keeps young Australians up at night? According to the UNICEF report, the top three concerns are:
- Financial security and housing (43%)
- Mental health and wellbeing (39%)
- Online safety and the pace of digital change (32%)
These aren’t abstract fears; they are concrete anxieties directly impacting their ability to envision a positive future. The desire for change is palpable – 41% of children surveyed said they would prioritize making housing cheaper and easier to afford if they were in charge of Australia.
Beyond Housing: Discrimination and Vulnerability
The report also sheds light on growing rates of discrimination faced by young people, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and those with disabilities. Experiences of discrimination based on appearance, gender, or identity are becoming increasingly common, further exacerbating existing vulnerabilities. Nicole Breeze, chief advocate for children at UNICEF Australia, notes the increasing challenges faced by children with caring responsibilities and those leaving out-of-home care, who are at high risk of homelessness.
The Role of Social Media and Digital Life
While not the sole cause, social media plays a significant role in amplifying anxieties. Constant exposure to curated realities and negative news cycles can create a sense of overwhelm and inadequacy. Navigating the complexities of the digital world, including online safety and the rapid pace of technological change, is another major source of stress for young Australians. eSafety Commissioner provides resources for navigating these challenges.
Investing in Prevention: A Path Forward
The escalating costs of late intervention demonstrate the urgent need for a shift in focus – from reacting to problems to proactively investing in the wellbeing of young Australians. This means strengthening mental health services, addressing systemic discrimination, and creating affordable housing options. It also means genuinely listening to the voices of young people and involving them in policy decisions, as Ashwini Aravinthan advocates. Ignoring their concerns isn’t just a moral failing; it’s an economic one.
What are your predictions for the future of youth wellbeing in Australia? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
