The City’s youth have spoken

In 2014 more than 1300 young people aged eight to 25-years-old, who live, work, study or 'hang out' in the City of Wanneroo, took part in the YSpeak! survey.

The final report examines how young people communicate and get information, what issues are important to them, what services, facilities and programs they use and what they think about them.

City of Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said the results would help shape the development of a City wide Youth Strategy due for completion in 2016.

“This City initiative demonstrates our strong commitment to the inclusion of young people,” she said.

“The extensive information gathered will be used to develop a comprehensive Youth Strategy, which focuses on the Council’s ongoing commitment to young people and their needs.”

The survey identified a range of community issues concerning young people including wellbeing, safety and crime, young people’s right to participate in decision-making and their ability to connect with other young people in their area.

Key survey findings:

• Family relationships were most important to all ages and across all wards.
• The environment was of most concern to young people aged 8 to11 but of least concern to young people aged 12 to 25.
• The future was of most concern to young people of all ages and across all wards.
• Bullying was a concern to young people aged 8-11.
• Crime and safety was of significant concern to young people aged 12 to 15 across all wards.
• Employment was of significant concern to young people aged 16 to 25.
• Transport was an issue for about one third of young people in stopping them from accessing things they needed in the City.

The results enable the City to better understand contemporary issues facing young people living, working and studying in the City of Wanneroo and will help shape future service delivery.

For the full report visit www.wanneroo.wa.gov.au/cowyouth/.