Information for Schools

Why is YMOF Important?

It has been over 10 years since the last national survey on the mental health of children and adolescents (the Young Minds Matter survey). Much has changed since then, like the rise in the use of social media and AI as well as the increased availability of mental health services for young people.

Young Minds: Our Future, the Third Australian Child and Adolescent Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing, will provide updated, nationally representative data to inform policies, programs, and services that support young people’s mental health and wellbeing. It will identify what has changed and what services and supports are needed today.

The findings will be shared with government and non-government organisations, including the education sector, to guide future planning, investment, and support. A key finding from the last survey was that children and adolescents with a mental disorder were 3-5 years behind their peers in terms of NAPLAN results, providing a vital insight for schools.

How can schools help?

We ask that you to promote YMOF by sharing one or more of the attached resources via your school newsletter, social media pages, or any other parent/family communication channels. High schools could also share this information directly with students. To make this easy, ready-to-use digital materials, can be found below:

  • Text for your school newsletter.
  • A social media tile (image) for circulation via your social media channels.
  • Suggested long- and short-form captions to accompany the image when posting on your social media channels.

We are NOT seeking to directly recruit parents or students from your school. Rather, the goal is to alert parents to the study so that, if they are approached, they are more likely to agree.

Why does school support matter?

Families often place deep trust in schools and educators. When information about a study is shared through these familiar and supportive environments, it carries credibility and reassurance. Schools are not just places of learning—they’re central hubs where families feel connected, informed, and supported. That’s why hearing about this study through a school setting can make families more open to participating when approached.

Participation in this national research effort helps build a clearer, more accurate picture of how children and young people are feeling across Australia. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about understanding real experiences, identifying what’s working, and uncovering where more support is needed.

The insights gained will help shape future services, resources, and supports that reflect the realities families face. Whether it’s guiding how schools respond to student wellbeing, informing community programs, or helping health services better meet the needs of young people, every contribution matters.

By taking part, families are helping to create a stronger foundation for children’s mental health—not just for today, but for years to come. The ripple effect of their involvement will reach classrooms, homes, and communities across the country.

Resources

FAQs

Still have questions about YMOF?

No, the survey is done at home with families. Schools are not directly involved in the interviews. Neither students nor parents are directly recruited through schools.

Schools are a trusted source of information for families.

We would like to ensure as many parents as possible hear about the study, so they are more likely to agree to participate if invited.

Yes, this study is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. Both the Federal and state education departments are aware of this study.

You can help by sharing information with families and encouraging participation if they’re invited. We can provide digital materials that you can share through your newsletters.

Yes, Curtin University Human Research Ethics Office [HRE2024-0729].