Be heard at a Youth Speak Out event

Young Queenslanders who want a say in shaping the future of our state now have a chance to be heard during a series of powerful youth roundtables.

Hosted by Youth Affairs Minister Meaghan Scanlon, the Speak Out events will form part of Queensland Youth Week from April 10 – April 18, 2021.

Three roundtables have been organised for Mossman Gorge, in North Queensland, on April 13, Walkabout Creek, in South East Queensland, on April 14, and Mount Etna Caves National Park, in Central Queensland, on April 16.

Ms Scanlon said the forums would include guided walks or experiences in our beautiful national parks to help get the conversation going.

“I want to hear from young people about the things that matter to them, particularly their ideas about the challenges their local communities face and the future of our society, environment and culture,” Ms Scanlon said.

“We need young people to take a seat at the table in shaping our future, and Queensland will be a stronger state if we include them in the decision-making process.

“I would love to see a diverse cross-section of young people put their names forward to represent different ages, backgrounds and lived experiences.

“This is about harnessing ideas to address the pertinent issues our young people are facing not only now, but for future generations.”

Minister Scanlon said Queensland Youth Week was the state’s opportunity to celebrate the youth of Queensland, their achievements and contributions.

“We’ve seen the impact COVID-19 has had on young people, more than any other group, and the strength they have shown as the pandemic severely disrupted their education and employment is a shining example of what they will be able to accomplish in the future,” she said.

“I encourage young people to jump online and be part of the Speak Out events – make sure your voice is heard.”

Young Queenslanders aged 15 – 25 years are invited to nominate themselves through an Expression of Interest process via https://www.des.qld.gov.au/youthweek/speak-out.

Food will be provided, and local transport can be made available. The event series will be fully supervised.