Young people aged 16 to 25 are encouraged to apply for the 2024 YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament and experience the dynamic world of politics. Gain an understanding of the workings of parliament and become an active contributor to our democratic process.
The Victorian Government is investing $160,000 to support this year’s YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament and YMCA Youth Press Gallery programs, including continued support for young people with a disability to participate.
Minister for Youth, the Hon Natalie Suleyman MP, said the Victorian Government is proud to continue its support for the program and looks forward to hearing the ideas young people develop to tackle the issues that matter to them and their peers.
"The Youth Parliament empowers young Victorians to have a voice on issues important to them, and I am delighted that the Allan Labor Government has been able to partner with YMCA Victoria again to support this wonderful program.”
This program has led to real, tangible changes, such as an improved recycling system and the implementation of compulsory bike helmets in Victoria.” Natalie Suleyman, Minister for Youth.
Youth Parliament has helped to shape more than 60 pieces of Victorian legislation or Government initiatives over more than 35 years, including laws on over the counter availability of the morning after pill, banning of soft drinks in State Schools and gender-neutral school uniforms.
"The Y Victoria’s Youth Parliament has been a guiding hand for Victorian youths to navigate advocacy within their communities for over 35 years. The 2024 Youth Parliament will shape the leaders of the future.
Advocacy and keeping the older generations accountable for the actions and inactions that they have done is a responsibility that has fallen on this generation of young Victorians. The Y Victoria’s Youth Parliament 2024 will prepare young people with the important tools, skills, and platforms that they need to enact the change they want." Kaitlin Woolford, YMCA Victoria 2024 Youth Governor.
Teams of Youth Parliamentarians will draft, debate and vote on Bills during the three-day sitting in Victorian Parliament’s chambers in July 2024.
Youth Parliament Bills that pass during the week will then be presented to relevant government ministers for their consideration.
The Youth Parliamentarians will also attend a YMCA Victoria intensive training camp in May, where they will develop their knowledge and understanding of writing, debating and passing Bills as well as develop skills in public speaking, critical thinking, communication, leadership and teamwork.
Applications open today and close on Sunday 12 November 2023. For more information or to apply, visit www.vicyouth.ymca.org.au/learning-and-leadership/youth-parliament/get-involved.