Youth Research Qualitative Report - District Council of Mount Barker

5. Project Findings - Part 2 – concerns for particular groups of
young people
5.1 Males
Young men were more likely to complain of a lack of employment opportunities in the Mt Barker
Council District. Lack of employment was especially a problem for young men who are somewhat
disengaged or had fewer intrinsic resources (social capital, work experience). It is essential that
young men of school leaving age have opportunities to gain work experience and employment. The
longer they are unemployed, the lower their chances of gaining employment as they get older.
Problems associated with poverty, boredom and disengagement are then likely to continue and
increase.
5.2 Females
While there are a couple of amenities catering to the physical recreation needs of young males,
there are no such amenities for young females. The skate park, the BMX track, even the many
playing fields are used primarily by boys and young men. The young women in this study wanted
more varied retail outlets, a more interesting town centre and recreation that could be enjoyed by a
group (such bowling alley).
Young women were also more likely to talk about safe local night time entertainment options,
feeling their independence was limited because, other than the cinema, travel to the city was the
only option at night.
Although in the minority, there was also concern raised for young women who are pregnant or
parenting. These young women were in need of a suite of services that facilitated access to social
and health support, especially once a baby was born. Permanent housing is essential, but housing in
another area is likely to isolate a young mother from good social support. Transport is also important
as is access to other young mothers through a local young mothers group.
5.3 Different age groups
13-14 years:
Younger teenagers (13-14yrs) were generally more content with the level of service and amenity
available to them in the area. This age group is less independent than older age groups; they are less
likely to be looking for things to do in the evening and more likely to participate in local sporting
clubs. They rely on the resources available to them in their homes and expect their financial and
travel needs to be primarily met by their parents.
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Needs assessment of young people in the Mt Barker Council District – November 2009