The 23rd annual survey of young people’s concerns, hopes and experiences run by Mission Australia aims to provide a snapshot of what teenagers are thinking and feeling.

Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said the survey will provide an important resource for policymakers to inform changes affecting young Australians.

“The last few years have seen our young people experience significant challenges – interruptions to their education, housing insecurity and mental health concerns to name a few,” she said.

Callister urged community groups, schools and sporting organisations to encourage young people to participate in the snapshot, which in 2022 surveyed almost 20,000 people aged 15 to 19.

Last year’s report found the environment (51.0 per cent), equity and discrimination (35.9 per cent) and mental health (33.9 per cent) were the most pressing issues for young Australians, signalling a shift away from Covid-19 concerns.

In 2022, one in 20 young people or their families had trouble paying bills and sought financial help from family, friends or charity.

Given the sharp rise in inflation over the past 12 months, cost of living and housing are likely to be higher on this year’s list.

The survey is open from March to August via the Mission Australia website.