YOUNG Australians are not turning their backs on democracy. They are finding new ways to have their voices heard, according to new research challenging the idea that younger generations are disengaged.
A report from the Australian Institute of Family Studies, or AIFS, has found young people remain deeply concerned about social, economic and environmental issues, with many choosing digital campaigns, community action and volunteering alongside traditional forms of participation such as voting.
The findings have relevance for regional communities, where young volunteers, sporting groups, community organisations and local campaigns continue to play an important role in keeping towns connected.
The research found 89 per cent of young people voted in the 2022 Federal Election, while 41 per cent had expressed their views about government action in the previous five years, most commonly through signing online petitions.
Almost one-third of young people surveyed had also taken part in a protest or demonstration.
Lead author Dr Ebony Biden said the findings challenged the idea that young people were disconnected from civic life.
“Young people have often been described as disengaged from civic life, but these findings show many are actively involved in ways that aren’t always expressed through what might be seen as traditional pathways,” Dr Biden said.
The study, which followed more than 4400 young Australians over two decades through the Growing Up in Australia longitudinal study, found 83 per cent of participants were concerned about at least one social, economic or environmental issue affecting them.
However, many young people also reported feeling disconnected from formal political systems, with only 11 per cent believing people like them had a meaningful say in government decisions.
The research also highlighted the continuing importance of volunteering, with 34 per cent of young people reporting they had volunteered in the previous year.
Sporting groups were the most common area of involvement, followed by church and religious groups, youth services and community organisations.
Kirsten Campbell, Longitudinal Head of the study at AIFS, said creating meaningful opportunities for young people to participate was essential for strong communities.
“When young people feel heard, connected and able to contribute, it supports not only their individual wellbeing, but also the strength and resilience of our communities,” she said.
The report suggests communities and institutions need to recognise the many ways young people contribute, from volunteering and community projects to advocacy and online engagement.