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Youth Conversations 2.0
The challenge
The Youth Conversations research project is an ongoing longitudinal study that stands as the largest youth voice and youth-centred research endeavour in the Great South Coast region of Victoria. Continuing into 2025 and beyond, it provides a vital forum for young people to articulate their views on education, employment, community, and current events. The insights gained from this project not only guide and influence local youth work but also reach government departments and academia, where they are frequently referenced, ensuring a lasting impact on the understanding and support of youth in the region.
Project overview
In 2025 the project aims to build on the previous Youth Conversations work completed in 2021 involving the voices of 700 young people between the ages of 12 and 19 living in six local government areas across the Great South Coast of Victoria. The Youth Conversations 2.0 project aims to collect the voices of up to 2000 young people drawing on focus groups and a survey using the model previously applied by the Beyond the Bell team. Deakin researchers will provide research support for the analysis of the data.
Outcome
This ongoing initiative is vital to detect new and emerging trends among young people. The analysis ensures that responses and interventions are targeted effectively and meet the most pressing needs of young people, thereby fostering a more supportive and responsive community environment for their development and well-being.
Project team
Julianne Moss
Louise Paatsch
Damian Blake
Harsha Chandir
Rino Adhikary
Funding
$119,906.41
Timeline
March 2025 – December 2025
More information
Beyond the Bell website
Youth Conversations 2021 – Research Snapshot: 