Applications for the Y's Youth Parliament are now open for all young people aged 15-25.
Now in its 27th year, Youth Parliament is a youth empowerment program that provides an opportunity for participants to
- Experience first-hand the state’s parliamentary process
- Have a real say on issues affecting young people; and
- Propose solutions by assuming roles as Youth Members of State Parliament
Alongside this participants will also develop their public speaking, critical thinking, debate, and leadership skills, while also meeting like-minded individuals and forging lifelong friendships along the way.
The program culminates in a parliamentary debate held in the Parliament House and overseen by influential West Australian political figures.
Bills debated in 2021 covered areas as diverse as life skills for high school students, child medical neglect, First Nationals cultural awareness, the development of regional centres and decriminalising sex work.
In addition, the program also saw the Racial Hate Crime Prosecution and Victim Support Bill passed unanimously.
Former Youth Parliament Coordinator, Taylor Watson explained that Youth Parliament is not just for those interested in politics.
She said that “Youth Parliament is more than politics. Even if you don’t have an interest in politics, I would encourage you to apply because if you’re passionate about any issues, your voice can be amplified to the Government of today.”
“We’ve seen real change in legislation come out of the Y Youth Parliament, which is a testament to how brilliant the program is.”
Furthermore, participant Euan Gleeson-Brown also stressed the how beneficial the program is.
He said that “it’s fantastic to not only talk to politicians and people who are in grass-root organisations but also those who are involved in legislation and pushing community development programs.”
“It doesn’t stop when Youth Parliament ends, it continues well beyond.”
To apply download the 2022 Application Pack here or email Orla Latawski Program Coordinator at orla.latawski@ymcawa.org.au
Applications close Sunday the 20th of March.