Making up 35.2 per cent, this was followed by equity and discrimination (23.5pc) and mental health (24pc).

Over 7,000 young people aged between 15 and 19 from NSW participated in the survey, answering 37 questions in total.  

“These results point to a more coordinated, comprehensive and cohesive national and localised plan so that we can ensure we are delivering the right programs to the young people who need them most,” Mission Australia state director Ben Carbis said.  

In metro NSW, the top three issues identified for Australia were equity and discrimination (30.6pc), alcohol and drugs (24.4pc) and mental health (20.7pc). Mental health has become the top three areas of concern for the first time this year, and has doubled since 2011. 

Southern NSW area manager for Mission Australia Daniel Strickland said the rise of mental health issues is a concern. Despite the difference in ranking, alcohol and drugs, mental health and equity and discrimination were flagged as concerns amongst youth in both metro and regional NSW.

“Young people in in the bush and in the big cities are having the same problem,” Mr Strickland said. “Sadly we are hearing from teachers at schools that students as young as eight are having suicidal thoughts.” 

Mr Strickland urged parents, teachers or family members to have open conversations with young people.

“Some people might be worried about the young person, and avoid the topic with fear of upsetting them,” he said. “But being forward about your concerns are serious.”

He said the generational culture of ignoring problems, and simply ‘getting on with it’, was detrimental to younger people suffering from mental health, discrimination or alcohol and drug issues. 

“Goulburn is a large community, but also very small. Sadly, people think putting your hand up for help is a sign of weakness,” he said. “We can be the voice for young people, that’s why we have this survey. ” 

Hume LAC crime manager Chad Gillies said local police are continuously working closely with schools to educate the community. 

“This is a social issue,” Mr Gillies said. “Especially with alcohol, it is seen as a right of passage. But young people don’t seem to understand the long term impact.” 

Mr Gillies said terms such as ‘recreational drugs’ as an accepted practice amongst teens is a genuine concern.