Mildura’s Youth Parliament team is a chance to make a difference

Published on 06 January 2022

Young Sunraysia residents looking to make a difference to the lives of residents in our region now and into the future are encouraged to apply for positions on the 2022 Youth Parliament Program Mildura team.

The program is open to residents aged 16 to 25 and provides a chance for young people to be heard at the highest levels of State Government.

Expressions of interest to join the 2022 YMCA Youth Parliament Mildura team are now open and must be submitted by 4pm on Friday 4 February 2022.  

The program will see six participants receive training in public speaking and leadership at residential camps as they research issues they’re passionate about.

These issues will form the basis of a Bill teams will develop, and then debate in the Victorian Parliament over three days in June 2022.

At the conclusion of the program, all Bills are handed to the relevant Victorian Government minister, which provides the government with an insight into issues important to young Victorians.

Mildura Mayor Liam Wood said previous Mildura teams have brought about real change, with their Bills serving as the impetus for policies eventually implemented by the Victorian Government.

“Each year we see our young leaders stand up to the plate and represent us so well, so professionally at the highest level through the Youth Parliament program,” Cr Wood said.

“They do us proud every year, not only showing the rest of Victoria what young people in our region are capable of, but importantly, showing they’re in touch with issues relevant to our community, and then having the courage and dedication to address these issues and bring about change in the halls of Victorian Parliament.”

The Youth Parliament program is funded by Council and the YMCA, meaning there is no cost to participants.

Expression of interest forms are available now by visiting www.mildura.vic.gov.au/YouthParliament or by contacting Council’s Youth Services team on (03) 5018 8100.

For more information or for assistance with expressions of interest contact Youth Development Officer Barbara Clifford on (03) 5018 8100.

ENDS