General News
19 March, 2026
Cost of living tops young Australians' concerns
Headspace Horsham is focusing this month on support tailored to people aged 15 to 25 to help them feel confident, connected, and hopeful about their future.
The launch of the study and work program coincides with new insights from the 2025 headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey, which found that cost of living, job stability, and pressures with study were the biggest concerns for Australians aged 15 to 25.
Nearly half of the survey participants ranked the cost of living as their biggest concern (49 per cent), ahead of any other issue.
Other major stressors included study (38 per cent), future job opportunities (34 per cent) and affordable housing (34 per cent).
Trina Gloury, headspace Horsham’s team leader of community awareness and engagement, said they know mental health challenges can make it harder for young people to stay engaged in study or work.
Of the factors impacting participants the most, Ms Gloury acknowledged the pressures can feel overwhelming, but said assistance and support were available.
"When young people receive help with their work or study goals alongside mental health support, it can make a huge difference," she said
"We have a number of options available at our centre, from online options to in-person support.
"We are fortunate to have a careers counsellor from Federation University’s Skills and Job Centre visit every fortnight to support young people with their work and study goals.
"It’s not just about finding a job or enrolling in a course – it’s about building confidence, creating a sense of purpose and reducing stress."
Ms Gloury encouraged youngsters who are unsure about their future to get in touch.
One-on-one study and work support is also available online for 15-25-year-olds, and the headspace Career Mentoring initiative pairs people aged 18-25 with volunteer professionals based on their career goals and interests, to provide advice and guidance.