Australia’s youth have given up hope

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The Australian Youth Barometer 2025, produced by Monash University’s Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice (CYPEP), is the fifth annual study of young Australians aged 18–24. It combines surveys (527 participants), interviews, and existing national data to explore youth experiences across economy, work, education, health, relationships, and civic participation

This year’s survey paints a bleak picture, especially pertaining to financial challenges facing Australia’s youth. Distrust in political institutions is also growing, with many feeling unrepresented or unheard.

On economic and financial security, the report notes that 85% of young people report financial difficulties, while 18% face food insecurity.

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About the author
Leith van Onselen is Chief Economist at the MB Fund and MB Super. He is also a co-founder of MacroBusiness. Leith has previously worked at the Australian Treasury, Victorian Treasury and Goldman Sachs.