ARACY’s submission to the House Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability, drawing on young people’s voices and The Nest Wellbeing Framework.
Alcohol and other drug (AOD) use among children and young people is a health and wellbeing issue shaped by relationships, environments, and opportunities for belonging. ARACY’s submission draws on the experiences of more than 60 young Australians aged 14–24, and argues that prevention and recovery are most effective when services strengthen the ecosystems around young people — rather than relying on fear or punishment.
"A lot of young people turn to alcohol to cope with stress or anxiety, but they don't always understand how it makes things worse."
"I think it is because sometimes to get, like, a psychologist or someone, you've got to go on a massive wait list. It can be quite expensive, whereas you might just have friends who have some alcohol… it's just, like, a quick solution."
What young people told us
Young people called for honest, non-judgmental education, access to safe spaces, and early support that recognises their realities. They described most school programs as repetitive and fear-based. They highlighted stigma, cost, and confidentiality as the most common barriers to seeking help. They also identified housing stress, academic pressure, and family norms as key drivers of AOD use.
Grounded in The Nest Wellbeing Framework
ARACY’s analysis maps AOD harms and solutions across The Nest‘s six domains. Strengthening wellbeing, belonging, and connection across systems is the most effective pathway to prevent harm and support recovery.
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With six connected areas, The Nest ensures young Australians have everything they need for the best start in life, helping them reach their highest potential.
Using The Nest, has helped ARACY to be at the forefront of disease prevention and the promotion of holistic health for young Australians.
Here you’ll see some examples of how The Nest has been used in organisations outside of ARACY across Australia.
