Council endorses new youth strategy

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) has endorsed a new Youth Strategy to be used in the consideration and formulation of future budgets.

TRC Regional Youth Advisory Committee Chair and Community Development Chair Cr Geoff McDonald said the Youth Strategy 2019-2021 is a clear statement about Council’s bold ambitions for our young people, who are our most precious resource.

“Establishing a Youth Strategy has been a key ambition for the Regional Youth Advisory Committee and I am delighted to see the inaugural strategy endorsed,” Cr McDonald said.

“The strategy provides a blueprint for supporting young people aged 12 to 24 across the Region.  

“Council values the contributions young people make to our Region and is proud to support their participation in all aspects of community life.

“With more than 27,000 young people aged between 12 and 24 living in our region, it’s important they are involved in the development of our communities and have opportunities to have a say in decisions that affect their lives.

“Council developed the strategy with the input of more than 700 young people, service providers, youth support workers, educators, emergency services personnel and Council representatives.

“The strategy is designed with young people at its heart – and seeks to support their futures and empower them to drive positive change, particularly through the Youth Leaders program.

“It also recognises the principal role the Regional Youth Advisory Committee can play in identifying and coordinating youth initiatives.

“The strategy includes five focus areas for Council to implement in collaboration with partner organisations and the broader community over the next three years.

“These focus areas are about helping young people have a voice and participate in government decision-making; linking them with education providers, industry and community groups to enhance their employment opportunities and connecting them with other young people in the region.

“An important part of the strategy is activating and strengthening Council’s partnerships with young people, their families, service providers, and other community stakeholders.

Council unanimously endorsed the resolution: That Council endorse the Toowoomba Regional Council Youth Strategy 2019-2021 to be used in the consideration and formulation of future budgets.

For more information about the project, please visit https://yoursay.tr.qld.gov.au/youth-strategy or contact Council on 131 872 or email [email protected]