During 2006, the Youth Affairs Network of Queensland noticed an increase in the number of organisations and youth workers contacting it to raise concerns about the level of support available for young people who were not involved in education or work.

In response, YANQ undertook this small research project to investigate these concerns and to assess the level and nature of support that is available for young people who are disengaged from education and work. The research focused specifically on young people aged between 12 to 18.

During 2006, the Youth Affairs Network of Queensland noticed an increase in the number of organisations and youth workers contacting it to raise concerns about the level of support available for young people who were not involved in education or work.

These concerns were raised formally via the Youth Consultative Network and informally (e.g. during phone calls or meetings with YANQ staff).

In response, YANQ undertook this small research project to investigate these concerns and to assess the level and nature of support that is available for young people who are disengaged from education and work. The research focused specifically on young people aged between 12 to 18.

By Daniel Allert

The Youth Affairs Network Queensland believes it is necessary to reframe debates about young people's services (such as education, housing, employment support etc) by asserting young people's rights, as opposed to their ‘needs’. It is important to differentiate between these two terms.  This is because of the negative impact which the current term ‘needs’ is having on young people in our society by reinforcing negative connotations. Instead, Australia must adopt a “rights culture"1.

There are a number of underlying meanings associated with the word ‘need’. Firstly, having ‘needs’ suggests that persons are weak because they require ‘help’2. This is a degrading portrayal of human necessities. It conjures up ideas of the weak and inferior in the same manner we would refer to the elderly, disabled and children. Secondly, the term ‘need’ has become a dirty word because people think a need requires charity and charity requires tax payer’s money. People with needs are portrayed as slackers who can’t support themselves.

There are a number of weaknesses inherent in the very meaning of ‘need’ that aren’t immediately obvious. Firstly, because needs can be prioritised and addressed on a conditional basis there is no recourse when needs aren’t met. While the infringement of a need offers no remedy legal remedy in most cases, the infringement of a right does. Secondly, when something is labelled a need, it can be withheld upon minimal justification.