Aussie youth vote influenced by super

Superannuation has made the top 10 in a recent survey of the issues that will inform the youth vote at the next election.

An Australia Institute survey found that issues often touted by both political parties as key to this election — including Gonski funding, mining and refugee policy — were seen by young Australians as less important than jobs, rent, marriage equality, university funding, and surprisingly — superannuation.

The survey of more than 800 17-25 year-olds shines a light on how both parties could capture the youth vote, the Institute said.

"When Prime Minister Kevin Rudd returned to the job he made a pitch for the youth vote, but does he know what issues are important to them?" The Australia Institute's youth engagement officer Bridget Daly said.

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"There's been plenty of talk about immigration policy and the carbon tax, and while they are important issues they aren't top of mind for young Australians."

The respondents results showed that jobs were top of mind for 12.8 per cent, rent availability and affordability ranked number one for 10.2 per cent of respondents, and marriage equality and university funding ranked equal third.

Superannuation made the top 10 for 28.9 per cent of youths surveyed, with 3.5 per cent ranking it first, 4.9 per cent placed it second, 6.2 per cent third, 6.7 per cent fourth and 7.6 per cent fifth.

Climate change, youth allowance, the National Broadband Network and bulk billing rounded out the top 10 voting issues. Interestingly, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, closing the gap, penalty rates for weekend shifts, animal welfare, defence funding and foreign aid failed to make the grade.

A survey by the Australia Institute last month found that 1.2 million young Australians felt no political party represented their needs.

"That's enough votes to win or lose the election," Daly said.