Young people from the Sunshine Coast and across Queensland are being urged to put their hand up for this year’s Youth Parliament.
Queenslanders aged 15 to 25 can nominate and have the opportunity to speak up for their local communities.
Those who want to make their voices heard and empower their communities are urged to apply to participate in the 2024 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, with applications now open.
This will be the 29th Queensland Youth Parliament and the pathways provides participants with the opportunity to speak up for their communities and learn first-hand about parliamentary processes.
Every year, the program brings together 93 young people, representing each electorate in Queensland.
In 2023 the Youth Parliament representatives from the region were Buderim: Jessica Cash; Caloundra: Lea Gabriel; Glass House: Nathaniel Audley; Gympie: Travis Pearce; Kawana: Agnes Jain; Maroochydore: Sandy Gardam-McLean; Nicklin: Elliana Galvin; Ninderry: Eliza Peak; Noosa: Zac Davidson; and Pumicestone: Jessica Brown.
Queensland Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch said Youth Parliament offered a platform for young people across the state to have a say about important issues facing their communities, connect with their peers and learn about democracy.
“Youth Parliament has a strong history of empowering young people to express their views and take up challenges to become leaders of the future,” she said.
“In the past, ideas that have been formulated through Queensland Youth Parliament have become government policy.
“I encourage young people to nominate for this program as it provides an opportunity to build their leadership skills and learn about influencing change.”
Program participants will meet in Brisbane in April to form legislative committees and discuss ideas, and again in September for a residential program and the opportunity to debate their youth bills at Parliament House.
Between April and September, members of each committee will collaborate to write their youth bills, as well as design and implement community action plans.
Participants in Years 11 and 12 are also eligible to receive one point towards their Queensland Certificate of Education upon the completion of their term as a Youth Member, as the program is accredited by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority.
Nominations will close on February 9. For more information click here.
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