Note: this is a past research project that is now complete. 

Background

The Healthy Neighbourhoods Project is a large study looking at the health and wellbeing of children and teenagers across Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia. Thirty different communities from across these states have been selected to take part in the project. The project aims to assess the diversity of adolescent health and behaviour problems across communities with different socio-economic and political characteristics.

During 2006, over 8000 young people in years 6 and 8 were surveyed. The survey involved two parts: (1) an on-line questionnaire designed to provide information on health and social problems experienced by young people, and (2) a basic physical health assessment, including height, weight and blood pressure.

The project also involves a survey of key informants in each of the chosen communities, designed to determine the level of each community's prevention planning efforts toward supporting the healthy development of young people. Key informants are identified from across a wide range of sectors including education, law enforcement, community agencies, mental health, and others.

The information obtained from the Healthy Neighbourhoods Project will provide an understanding of the issues relevant to young people today and will help identify ways to make communities better places for young people to grow up.

Funder

National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC)

Publications

Williams, J., Toumbourou, J. W., Williamson, E., Hemphill, S. A., & Patton, G. (2009). Violent and antisocial behaviours among young adolescents in Australian Communities. 

Data from this project was included in The State of Victoria's young people report in 2007.

Hemphill, S. A., & Smith, R. (2010). Preventing youth violence: What does and doesn’t work and why. An overview of the evidence on approaches and programs. Canberra: Report prepared for the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth.

Contact

Dr Joanne Williams