The Youth Parliament will receive $50,000 annually over the next three years. Photo: NT Government.
The Northern Territory’s CLP Government is increasing its support for the Youth Parliament program.
Over the next three years, $150,000 will be provided to the program, giving young people, particularly those from regional and remote communities, a chance to participate in the civic education and leadership scheme.
The Youth Parliament, an initiative of The Y Northern Territory, is run by young people for young people to provide a platform for Territorians aged from 15 to 25 to engage meaningfully with democracy. The program intends to build leadership and teamwork skills while giving young people a chance to amplify their voice on issues of importance to them.
Minister for Youth, Seniors and Equality Jinson Charls said the support for the Youth Parliament was part of the government’s year of action, certainty and security, in which young Territorians were being empowered.
“Young people are full of energy, ideas and optimism and we want to make sure they have every chance to help shape the Territory’s future,” Mr Charls said.
“Youth Parliament helps our next generation grow into confident, engaged citizens. By expanding access and supporting regional participation, we’re ensuring young people from all corners of the Territory can seize this opportunity.”
Thirty-six participants from across the Territory, including major centres such as Palmerston, Darwin, Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Alpurrurulam, will come together for the Youth Parliament this year.
Over the year, they will develop their own Youth Bills based on real-world issues affecting their regions and their futures. They then debate those bills in Parliament House in September, shaping policy debate and sharpening their skills.
The increased funding is aimed at making the program more accessible and inclusive, in particular for those in remote and underrepresented places.
The Y NT CEO Emma Bunting said: “Youth Parliament is not just a leadership program for young people, it is an experience that has the power and ability to positively impact the trajectory of a young person’s life, with many alumni in the NT and across Australia making a real difference in communities today.
“Youth Parliament amplifies the voices of young people on issues that matter to them. The impact of this program is far-reaching, beyond learning a new skill focused on civic education and engagement.”
