The Federal Government has announced the formation of a new Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) that will conduct research into new ways of using the Internet, social media and other applications.

 

"This centre will explore the role of technology in young people's lives to develop ways of using technology to improve their mental health and wellbeing," Federal Minister for Innovation Kim Carr said.

 

"One in four young Australians will experience mental health difficulties, disrupting relationships, education and work. With over 95 per cent of young Australians using the internet daily, the web is the ideal tool to support young people to improve their cybersafety, mental health and wellbeing."

 

The Young and Well CRC will receive more than $27 million of Australian Government funding to link young people with researchers, practitioners and innovators from over 70 partner organisations in the not-for-profit, academic, government and corporate sectors. By using technologies that are part of their daily lives, the CRC's research aims to reduce the depression, anxiety, substance use and social isolation that can lead to youth suicide, suicide attempts and self-harm.

 

Young people will themselves play a key role in the work of the centre. The Youth Brains Trust, a group of 19 young people from all walks of life and all around Australia, has been formed to provide strategic direction to the CRC, alongside seasoned mental health professionals.

 

"Young people today are the only ones who know what it's like to grow up in a globally networked society-they are the experts on their own lives. The Young and Well CRC will use their expertise to shape the values and vision of our organisation," said Young and Well CRC CEO Associate Professor Jane Burns.