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Curtin researchers are calling on young people from rural Western Australia to share their experiences of country party culture and help shape the future of youth support services.
Country parties can be an important part of growing up in rural Australia, offering opportunities for connection, friendship and celebration. But they can also bring challenges around alcohol and other drug use, safety and risk.
The National Drug Research Institute (NDRI) wants to hear directly from young people about their experiences, including the positives, challenges and strategies they use to stay safe.
Researchers are seeking participants who:
- Are aged 18–24.
- Currently live, or have previously lived in rural WA (excluding within 30km of Bunbury, Mandurah and Albany).
- Australian-born, ideally with multiple generations of family from rural WA.
- Have actively attended and participated in multiple country parties.
- Have English as their first language.
What’s involved?
Participation involves a confidential, one-on-one interview lasting 60–90 minutes (virtual or in person).
Participants will be reimbursed for their time, and individual identities will not be disclosed in the research findings.
The study aims to ensure young people’s voices help inform future policies, programs and services for rural Australian youth.
Interested in taking part?
Contact Nyanda McBride to check your eligibility and arrange an interview:
- Email: n.mcbride@curtin.edu.au
- Text: 0429 936 793
Approved by the Curtin University Human Research Ethics Committee (HRE2025-0255).
