Young Victorians who want to stand up, speak out and be heard at the highest levels of government should apply now for the 2015 Youth Parliament program, Minister for Youth Affairs, Jenny Mikakos, announced today.
Youth Parliament, run each year by the YMCA, is one of the state’s signature events for young people.
This year, 120 young people will be divided into teams of six to undertake a nine-day residential training program in relationship building, teamwork, public speaking and leadership skills over May and June.
The last three days of the June program will involve participants ‘taking over’ the Victorian Parliament and debating Bills in the Parliamentary Chambers.
On the final day the Youth Governor of Victoria will hand over the final Bills passed by the Parliament to the Minister for Youth Affairs for her consideration.
Over the past 20 years more than 20 Bills passed by Youth Parliament have gone on to become law, including:
- Mandatory wearing of bike helmets
- Nightclub safety reforms
- Blood alcohol content for those accompanying learner drivers
- Legal recognition for carers of people with disabilities
Applications open today and close on 7 April, with all Victorians aged between 16 and 25 eligible to nominate. To apply visit www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au
