Queensland Youth Parliament calls for nominations

YMCA Brisbane is searching for young people from all over the state who have an interest in leadership, the political process, or helping their community, to become members of the 2021 Queensland Youth Parliament. 

Nominations for the 26^th Youth Parliament are now open (25 January) and Queenslanders aged 15-25 years with an interest in influencing change, political science, public speaking and policy or government are encouraged to take up the opportunity.

There are 93 positions available within the Youth Parliament and Minister for Youth Affairs Meaghan Scanlon encouraged interested young people to apply.

“This is a great opportunity to learn how government works and to connect with current Members of Parliament,” Minister Scanlon said.

“This program has a strong focus on skills in leadership, public speaking, teamwork and influencing change.

“These are important life skills that will stand any young person in good stead as they enter the workforce.”

Ms Scanlon said the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament supported the government priorities of giving young people a voice as highlighted in the Queensland Youth Strategy.

“Importantly it provides an opportunity for young people to have their say about their community’s issues and concerns and learn all about parliamentary processes,” Ms Scanlon said

“This program is a fantastic way for young people to connect with peers who share a drive for personal development and with Members of Parliament, creating networks that can extend into their working life.”

Participants will represent their own state electorate or an electorate with which they have a personal connection such as through schooling or volunteering.

“We want to make sure the voices of young Queenslanders from all backgrounds and representing the diversity in our state are heard in the Youth Parliament,” she said.

“Young people in Year 11 and 12 can receive one point toward their Queensland Certificate of Education after completing the program, as YMCA is accredited by the Queensland Studies Authority.”

The Queensland Government provides more than $65,000 per annum to the YMCA to deliver the program.

Participants will form committees and, over the course of the program, each committee will develop a Youth Bill which will be debated at Parliament House in September.

The program runs from April until October and the YMCA will ensure it is delivered to current COVID-safe recommendations.

Nominations are now open and will close on Sunday 14 February 2021.

For more information about the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, email qypcoordinator@ymcabrisbane.org or go to www.ymcaqyp.org.au

ENDS

Media contact:                      DES Media Unit on (07) 3339 5831 or media@des.qld.gov.au