In the upcoming federal election, young Australians are set to outnumber Baby Boomers at the ballot box for the first time, with key issues like housing affordability and climate change at the forefront of their concerns. Lucas Walsh, director of Monash University’s Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice, emphasises the importance of this shift in electoral demographics, noting that young voters are now focusing on issues that directly impact their lives.
A survey of 500 Australians aged 18-24 revealed that young voters are particularly driven by housing, employment, climate change, inequality, and health. Walsh warns politicians that Millennials and Gen Z will prioritise these pressing concerns over superficial attributes of candidates. Over 75% of respondents indicated a desire for immediate action on affordable housing, particularly as rising living costs exacerbate the housing crisis. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has allocated $32 billion towards housing initiatives, while Opposition Leader Peter Dutton proposes to address the situation by limiting foreign investment and reducing immigration.
The report also found that half of the participants viewed employment opportunities as a critical issue, with over 80% facing financial hardships in the past year. Young Australians express concern about their financial futures, with many believing they will be worse off than their parents. In response, Albanese has implemented measures such as fee-free TAFE and student debt relief, while Dutton aims to streamline government employment and reduce expenses in the public sector.
Climate change remains a significant worry for 74% of young voters, with calls for the government to take stronger action. Although Australia has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, critics argue that progress has been inadequate. In recent announcements, Albanese has introduced a $2.3 billion initiative aimed at making battery storage more accessible, while Dutton proposes a multi-billion-dollar plan for nuclear energy development.
Social inequalities also weigh heavily on the minds of young Australians. About a third are concerned about racial and gender disparities, with notable unease surrounding gender discrimination in the workplace. Both political leaders have put forth plans to address these issues, with Albanese introducing a billion-dollar anti-domestic violence package and Dutton signalling intentions to establish a royal commission on domestic violence.
Mental health ranks as a key concern, with a recent report indicating that 21% of young Australians report poor mental well-being. In response to this crisis, Albanese has promised substantial funding towards youth mental health services, while Dutton also pledges investments in mental health initiatives.
As the youth demographic takes the reins this election, it is clear that their voting decisions will reflect the urgency of the challenges they face, shaping the political landscape for years to come.