Sign up to join the Youth Parliament and build you leadership skills
Friday, 24 February 2023
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Youth Minister Simone McGurk says the Youth Parliament is a great way to build leadership skills.
Applications are now open for people aged between 15 and 25 years to take part in the Y's (formerly the YMCA WA) 2023 Youth Parliament.
As a members of Youth Parliament you will have an opportunity to gather in the Houses of the Western Australian Parliament to debate bills, giving you first-hand experience of our State's parliamentary processes.
2023 marks the 28th year of Youth Parliament where Members of Youth Parliament are given practical experience in leadership, public speaking, writing legislation and working as a team to achieve outcomes.
Participants will debate legislation after working in committees to develop a Bill regarding an issue they are passionate about.
In 2022-23, The Department of Communities has provided a total of $84,560 to fund the 2023 Youth Parliament. Fifty-nine young people participated in the 2022 Youth Parliament, where eight Bills were presented.
Youth Minister Simone McGurk said the program presented a unique opportunity to inspiring leaders.
"Political participation is essential for a healthy democracy - I would encourage young people who want to create change to step up and have their voices heard.
"Last year the Youth Parliament debated bills that covered topics such as children's justice, electronic waste reduction and environmental education.
"Youth Parliament is a unique experience that will help shape our future leaders."
Members of Youth Parliament are encouraged to meet with their local member and will become youth mentors following completion of the program.
The 2023 Youth Parliament program is a year-long initiative that features a residential camp from Sunday 9 July to Friday 14 July.
The program will be officially opened with a ceremony at Parliament House on Monday 10 July. Following the opening ceremony, Youth Parliament will convene for three days in Parliament House.
Applications close on Sunday March 26, 2023. More information can be found on the Y's Youth Parliament website.