New inquiry into the impact of violence on young Australians

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Inquiry into the impact of violence on young Australians

Young girl sitting alone on dark stairs The House of Representatives Family and Youth Committee is conducting an inquiry into the impact of violence on young Australians.

Annette Ellis MP, the Committee Chair, stated that, “Committee Members have become increasingly concerned about the impact of violence on young Australians. We hope that this inquiry will enable young Australians to communicate their experiences and perceptions of violence to the Committee.”

A Mission Australia 2008 Survey of Young Australians surveyed 45,558 Australians aged between 11 and 24. This survey found that 22 per cent of the young people who responded to the survey identified personal safety as a significant concern. This is a new issue that has not been identified by previous Mission Australia surveys.

“These Mission Australia statistics demonstrate the need for an inquiry to be convened on this issue as personal safety is obviously occupying the thoughts of young people in Australia,” Ms Ellis said.

Through the inquiry process the Committee will specifically examine the following:

perceptions of violence and community safety among young Australians;
links between illicit drug use, alcohol abuse and violence among young Australians;
the relationship between bullying and violence and the wellbeing of young Australians;
social and economic factors that contribute to violence by young Australians; and
strategies to reduce violence and its impact among young Australians.

The Committee encourages all interested parties to participate in the inquiry process and will seek to engage with young Australians throughout the inquiry.

More information

Visit: Family, Community, Housing and Youth Committee – Inquiry into the impact of violence on young Australians

Read: Relevant submissions on Inquiry website