Mental health, consent, employment, training and life in regional communities have been identified as among the most important issues for young North Queenslanders made clear in Queensland Youth Week’s Speak Out Series.
Hosted by the Minister for Youth Affairs, Meaghan Scanlon, a forum at Mossman Gorge saw young people gather to discuss challenges their local communities faced and the future for their society, environment, and culture.
Ms Scanlon said the forum included a diverse cross-section of passionate young people representing different ages, backgrounds and lived experiences.
“The morning was a great opportunity for young people to connect and share their views on what’s happening in their community and their ideas for improvement,” Ms Scanlon said.
“The discussions included a focus on youth mental health, youth engagement, consent, environment and climate change and it was an opportunity for them to talk about priority local issues, such as housing, employment and education from their perspective.”
She said the group also participated in a Dreamtime Walk that celebrated the area and set the scene for discussion.
“The forum was an opportunity to celebrate the young people of Queensland and their strong commitment to making sure their voices are heard,” Ms Scanlon said.
“We had a really engaging conversation about the issues that are really important to them. I was particularly impressed with the enthusiasm and energy everyone brought to the discussion.”
The forum was one of three held to celebrate Queensland Youth Week with others held in Central Queensland and South-East Queensland.
