Australia faces youth welfare concerns and declining fertility rates

A recent consultation in New South Wales involving over 5,700 children and young people has highlighted a strong desire for increased safety, health, and wellbeing by 2030. The ‘Space to Speak’ report, released by the NSW Office for Youth, indicates that rising living costs are significantly impacting the ability of young people to access essential services such as healthcare, education, and community activities.

The findings will inform the NSW Strategic Plan for Children and Young People 2027–2030. Key priorities identified include health and wellbeing, support and safety, education and development, community connection, and voice and influence. Participants expressed a need for greater accountability and more direct involvement in policy decisions that affect their lives.

Separately, Australia’s Intergenerational Report projects a long-term decline in fertility rates, with births expected to be outnumbered by deaths by 2066. The current fertility rate of 1.44 is below replacement levels and is projected to fall further. In response, Treasurer Jim Chalmers has emphasized reforms in early childhood education and the expansion of paid parental leave to support families, noting that a return to previous ‘baby bonus’ schemes is not currently planned.