Speak OUT

Speak OUTs are a growing movement that puts young Queenslanders (aged 12–25) at the centre of decisions that shape our communities.

It’s your space to share what matters most—on your terms.

Whether you’re passionate about mental health, education, cost of living, fairness, climate action, or community wellbeing, Speak OUTs are your opportunity to share ideas, spark change, and shape the future of Queensland.

If you’re a young Queenslander (aged 12–25) you can have your say by:

• Complete our Speak OUT Survey to share your views and help shape future government policies and programs
• Join us at Speak OUT by attending your nearest event to talk directly with government
• Visit the Get Involved website to take part in state-wide consultations and surveys
• Nominate to participate in the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament (15–25 years)
• Nominate to participate in the Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program (open to First Nations young people aged 18–25)
• Add your name to the Queensland Register of Nominees to Government Boards
• Enrol to vote (16 years and over) and shape democracy your way.
• Join a local youth group or advisory council to connect with others and influence your community
• Email or call your local Member of Parliament to share your perspectives and ask questions

2024–25 Speak OUT Highlights

In 2024–25, the Office for Youth connected with over 3,700 young Queenslanders through Speak OUT events. These events provided a valuable platform for young people to share their views, raise important issues, and influence government decision-making on matters that impact their lives.

Speak OUT events were delivered in various formats, including stalls at youth-focused events such as Schoolies and University O-Weeks, in-person workshops, and online discussions. Some sessions also involved collaboration with other Queensland Government agencies to support the development of policies and programs tailored to young people’s needs.

Top 10 issues identified by young Queenslanders

Through the 2024–25 Speak OUT events, young Queenslanders identified their top 10 most important issues:

1. Mental health (576 responses)
2. Cost of living (303 responses)
3. Physical health (279 responses)
4. Identity and culture (200 responses)
5. Education and training (198 responses)
6. Housing (142 responses)
7. Climate change and the environment (120 responses)
8. Learning life skills (117 responses)
9. Finances and money (108 responses)
10. Learning skills to manage emotions (87 responses)

Key insights from young Queenslanders

• Mental health: The most significant concern, with 56.6% of respondents identifying it as one of their top five issues. Young people highlighted the strong links between mental health and other areas such as education, employment, housing, and substance use. They also raised concerns about limited access to mental health services, particularly in regional areas.
• Cost of living: The second most pressing issue, with 30.1% of respondents identifying it as a top concern. Young people described cost-of-living pressures as barriers to education, housing security, employment, independence, and mental wellbeing. These challenges were particularly significant for students, young workers, and those living independently or without family support.
• Physical health: Ranked third, with 44.1% of respondents selecting it as a top issue. Young people linked physical health to broader challenges, including mental wellbeing, the cost of living, access to healthy food, safe spaces for exercise, and healthcare services.

Using young people’s voices to shape policy

The insights gathered from Speak OUT events are shared with relevant Queensland Government agencies. This ensures that the unique and diverse perspectives of young people are considered in the development and implementation of policies and programs that directly impact their lives.

Speak OUT event series

The Speak OUT series is an opportunity for young people to be heard by Queensland Government agencies. Events are in-person forums held across the state, encouraging young people to discuss their key issues, concerns, ideas and hopes for the future. Join us at a Speak OUT, or take the Speak OUT survey, to have your say in government policies and programs.