Young voters in Australia are increasingly vocal about climate change, urging the federal government to prioritise this pressing issue. This heightened concern has led to the emergence of a phenomenon referred to as climate anxiety, or eco-anxiety, which many young Australians are grappling with.
Alexa Stuart, a 21-year-old environmentalist from Newcastle, embodies this growing anxiety. Having experienced these feelings since her mid-teens, she attributes her concerns to the dire realities of climate change. A pivotal moment for her was the catastrophic bushfires of 2019-2020, which sparked a realisation of the catastrophic implications of environmental degradation.
According to research published in The Lancet, over 80% of individuals aged 16 to 25 express worries about climate change. This anxiety is often likened to feelings of homesickness or pre-traumatic stress, with some academic circles dubbing it “ecological grief”—a mourning for lost ecosystems and biodiversity.
Stuart, an advocate for climate action, has taken her concerns to the streets, even disrupting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s campaign activities to protest government inaction on climate issues. She argues that the government’s support for mental health initiatives feels contradictory given its coal policies, which she believes jeopardise young people’s futures.
During a recent protest, she expressed her frustration directly to the Prime Minister, stating, “You’re condemning young people like me to a life of climate disaster.” Stuart channels her anger and grief into action, believing that proactive engagement is essential in addressing the crisis.
As the 2025 federal election approaches, the prevalence of climate anxiety among the youth could significantly influence electoral outcomes. Stuart positions herself as a spokesperson for her generation, aiming to ensure that future generations can look back with pride at the actions taken during this critical time.
Her commitment to climate advocacy is driven by a desire to create a positive legacy, saying, “I want my 15-year-old self to be proud of me.” For many like Stuart, tackling climate change isn’t just a political issue but a deeply personal challenge tied to their future.
In closing, the emotional toll of climate anxiety is palpable among young Australians. Activists like Alexa Stuart are determined to push for significant reforms and action, stressing that confronting these fears through activism is crucial in fighting the climate crisis. For support, individuals are encouraged to reach out to Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636.