Young people from across Queensland have been invited to nominate now to take part in the State’s 28th YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament.
Encouraged by the Minister for Youth Affairs, Meaghan Scanlon said the youngsters who attend the Queensland Youth Parliament have the chance to have their say about important issues facing their communities, connect with their peers and learn about Australia’s democracy.
Ms Scanlon said the Queensland Youth Parliament offered Queenslanders aged 15 to 25 the opportunity to speak up for their communities and learn first-hand about parliamentary processes.
“This year sees the 28th YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament,” Ms Scanlon said.
“Every year, the program brings together 93 young people, representing each electorate in Queensland.”
She said the Youth Parliament had a strong history of empowering young people to express their views and take up challenges to become leaders of the future.
“In the past, ideas that have been formulated through Queensland Youth Parliament have become government policy,” Ms Scanlon said.
“I encourage young people to nominate for this program as it provides an opportunity to build their leadership skills and learn about influencing change.”
She said participants will meet in Brisbane in April this year to form legislative portfolios and discuss ideas, and again in September for a residential program and the opportunity to debate their bills at Parliament House.
“Between April and September, members of each portfolio will collaborate to write their bills, as well as design and implement community action plans,” Ms Scanlon said.
“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,” she said.
Minister Scanlon congratulated YMCA Brisbane for continuing to steer the landmark youth program successfully every year.
“It is a testament to YMCA Brisbane’s commitment that the program continues to challenge young people and provide an opportunity for them to share their ideas of change with the government,” the Minister said.
The Queensland Government provides annual funding to YMCA Brisbane to run the program and nominations now open will close at 11.59pm on Sunday 19 February this year.
More information about the Queensland Youth Parliament can be accessed at this PS News link.
