Social justice activist explains why young Australians have such low opinions of politicians

A fresh survey on the eve of the election from activist beauty brand The Body Shop caught Tom Elliott’s attention on Tuesday.

It was aimed at younger Australians and found 80 per cent of them would describe Australia’s politicians as “corrupt” and 79 per cent want the voting age lowered to 16.

70 per cent of respondents said there needed to be younger people in government, while only just over half (57 per cent) felt positive about what their future held.

Maria Thattil is a social justice activist and former Miss Universe Australia and told Tom Elliott a lot of the cynicism about Australia’s political class came from frustration.

“It’s just that young people feel like they’re not being listened to,” she said.

Press PLAY below to hear her explain

(Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)