More than half of young Victorians feel in control of their lives but one in 20 struggle to pay their bills.
More than 5000 Victorian teenagers aged 15-19 were surveyed as part of a report by outreach charity Mission Australia.
The results are sent to governments and schools to help develop policies, services and programs for young people.
The environment, equity and discrimination as well as mental health topped the issues young Victorians want addressed.
More than a quarter felt personally concerned about climate change and want more action to be taken.
"The looming threat of climate change and the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters is clearly hurting Australia's young people," Mission Australia state director Nada Nasser said.
Young people are also struggling to find safe housing as well as cope with the cost of living.
Despite half of young Victorians earning money, more than five per cent said they needed financial help from friends, family or charities to get by.
Meanwhile, one in 14 respondents felt too scared to go home and one in 10 were worried about having a safe place to live.
More than 80 per cent of those surveyed are also studying full-time.
Increasing income supports like Youth Allowance and building more social and affordable homes would go a long way to helping children and their families, Ms Nasser said.
"We must listen, ensure young people are included in decision-making processes, and act now so they can access the opportunities and supports they need to thrive."
"Young people have the answers," she said.
