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This year Mission Australia conducted its third annual survey of young Australians. The primary purpose of the survey is to identify and clarify the key and emerging issues of young people. The survey was distributed nationally to secondary schools, libraries and youth services. It was also available on the websites of Mission Australia and Supre, one of its corporate partners. The level of participation of young people aged between 11 and 24 years in the 2004 Youth Survey was very significant, with almost 8,500 young people responding. Approximately 2,500 and 1,500 young people participated in 2002 and 2003 respectively. The general focus in previous surveys has been on the issues that concern young people and where or to whom they go for advice, support and information. This year the focus has been broadened to include questions that provide a better understanding of the 'life context' of young Australians: what they value; their social engagement through participation in community activities; and some information about their living and financial circumstances. As a result, the 2004 survey has brought forward a much richer understanding of young people's opinions on the complex issues they think about and deal with, as well as providing insights into aspects of their daily lives. The survey findings are therefore important on a number of levels. They will assist Mission Australia and others working with young people, including government at all levels, to evaluate and improve their programs, services, projects and policies for young people. They also provide timely information for young people themselves and those interested and involved in youth issues and the delivery of services and programs for them.