Supporting well-being for Australian secondary students: perceptions and experiences of school staff and youth-focused community organization personnel

Australian students are experiencing rising well-being concerns in line with global trends. Although schools and youth-focused community organizations are positioned as central sites of well-being promotion, little research examines how well-being is understood and supported by those working with students. This study examined (i) key factors influencing student well-being and (ii) the experiences of high school staff and youth-focused community organizations workers and volunteers in supporting well-being. Forty-two participants took part in semi-structured focus groups. Transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Four factors shaped student well-being: mental health, social determinants, school safety, and social connection. Participants described three systemic challenges: fragmented systems, resource shortfalls, and escalating systemic pressures. Significant emotional burden and burnout were reported by school and community organization participants. Findings reveal a gap between well-being policy and frontline practice, highlighting the need for sustainable funding, workforce support, and stronger intersectoral collaboration to improve well-being for young people.