The Department of Communities undertook a survey of local governments to find out what they are doing in regards to engaging with young people, providing youth services and youth focussed activities. 

The survey was sent to all 139 local governments in Western Australia, including the Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands and the Shire of Christmas Island. 

Nearly 70 per cent of local governments responded, with the majority from regional and rural areas.

The majority of respondents thought that the six most prominent issues for young people in communities were:

  • drug and alcohol misuse
  • lack of employment and independence
  • boredom/lack of activities
  • lack of youth spaces, facilities, programs and services
  • lack of education and/or training opportunities
  • mental health and suicide issues.

The full findings can be found in the WA Youth Networks Survey Report. Key results are summarised in this infographic.