- Published:
- Friday 29 January 2021
Young Victorian leaders are encouraged to have their voices heard, share ideas and raise awareness on the issues most important to them.
Minister for Youth Ros Spence today announced that applications are now open for the 2021 YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament program.
Now in its 35th year, the Andrews Labor Government is investing $160,000 to help make this year’s Youth Parliament accessible to young people of all abilities, and to support the continuation of YMCA’s Youth Press Gallery.
Youth Parliament is a forum for young people aged 16-25 to gain hands-on experience in the parliamentary process.
Each year, participants draft, debate and vote on bills in a three-day intensive sitting held in the chambers of the Victorian Parliament. Bills that pass Youth Parliament are presented to government for consideration.
Youth Parliament has helped shape more than 30 Victorian laws, including the mandatory wearing of bike helmets and banning the sale of soft drinks in government schools.
The Youth Press Gallery is an opportunity for young people with an interest in a career in journalism to meet professional state and national political reporters and participate in a real press gallery.
The Gallery is responsible for developing and publishing content for mainstream media outlets including SBS and ABC, managing event social media, and shooting and editing footage of debates.
Before Youth Parliament sits in September, participants will attend a training camp in August to develop their teamwork, public speaking and leaderships skills.
Applications for the 2021 YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament program are open and will close Friday 19 March. For more information or to apply, visit vicyouth.ymca.org.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Ros Spence
“This is a great opportunity for young leaders to get involved in the parliamentary process, see how government works and spark genuine change on the issues that matter most to Victorian young people.”
“I encourage young people from across the state to get involved in this unique opportunity to influence change.”
Quote attributable to 2021 YMCA Victoria Youth Governor Georgia Mackenzie
“Young people are much more engaged than we are often led to believe, and Youth Parliament gives them the opportunity to showcase that and use their passion to make the changes they want to see a reality.”