When given access to resources and support young people can rely on technology for work, education, socialising and health. For instance, technology enables online job interviews, virtual classrooms, connectivity to online support groups, and telehealth appointments. However, young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds have faced digital inclusion challenges, highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.

This research investigated and identified the factors that can enhance digital participation amongst refugee and migrant background youth in Victoria, Australia. We have a diverse team of researchers and community partners collaborating with young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds, and together will propose strategies to enhance participation in the digital world.

This Issues Paper examines the use of creative arts as a participation strategy to engage young people in practices that support mental health and wellbeing. In wake of COVID-19 and concurrent crises the Resonant Voices research project, an arts-based participatory action research project, demonstrated the important role that creativity and artistic media play in individual and collective recovery for young people.

This report is the first phase of a two-phase action research project titled Building Activist Capacities of Young People Through Issue-based Campaigns.

The report explores key social issues facing young people aged 16 to 25 in Victoria, Australia, and examines how they respond to these issues. This study aims to better understand young people’s experiences of voice, the contexts and conditions in which they can cultivate their voices for social change, and where their voices resonate.

Read the full report here.

Read the summary and key findings here.

Alison Baker, Lutfiye Ali

This report has been designed using images from Freepik.com.

Social Cohesion and Participation in a Digital Age for Diverse Young Australians: A Summary of Key Findings

Read the summary here.

Read the full report here.

Anita Harris, Kim Lam and Michael Hartup, with Philippa Collin, Amanda Third and Soo-Lin Quek

Social Issues and Diverse Young Australians: A Summary of Key Challenges and Young People’s Concerns

Read the summary here.

Read the full report here.

Kim Lam, Anita Harris and Michael Hartup, with Philippa Collin, Amanda Third and Soo-Lin Quek

Since the 1980's, gaming, gamers, and gaming platforms have been criticised for promoting violence, addiction, social isolation and 'toxic geek masculinity'. However, our research paints a different picture. It shows that gaming and esports can improve wellbeing, social networks, community building and soft skills for young people.

Chris Zomer, Liam Magee, Amanda Third

This paper addresses current barriers and opportunities regarding the digital practices of CALD young people from refugee, migrant and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background and offer recommendations on supporting civic participation, especially in a post COVID world.

Kim Lam, Anita Harris