F.A.Q.s
2013 Youth MPs discuss issues at a Caucus meeting.
How often is Youth Parliament held?
Youth Parliament is an annual event that occurs in the June/July school holidays, or mid year break for Universities.
Who runs it?
YMCA Perth runs Youth Parliament, with the assistance of the Western Australian Government. The organization and running of the program are carried out by the Western Australian Youth Parliament Taskforce, a group of committed volunteers.
How long does it last for?
The residential program runs for about one week with a few months of preparation beforehand for participants.
What does it cost?
The fees for the program are $420 (excluding GST), due approximately six weeks after acceptance into the program. The Taskforce will be able to assist Youth Parliamentarians to seek sponsorship; Youth Members can often get sponsored for all or part of their participation fees from local Members of Parliament, Local Governments and community organisations.
What do Youth Parliamentarians talk about?
Each year's Youth Parliament will cover many areas of interest to young people in our state, with the Youth Members deciding which topics will be debated. Committees decide on a topic and write a piece of Legislation on that topic, covering issues from any State Government portfolio.
What has been discussed in the past?
Previous bills have covered a huge range of issues, including daylight savings, sexual health, housing affordability, environmental responsibility, water provision, education, juvenile justice, entertainment precinct curfews, youth-based decision making, learner driver laws, and many many more.
What happens to the Bills when the program finishes?
On completion of the program all bills are presented to Members of the Government and Opposition for their review and consideration. The Bills are also presented to the Governor of Western Australia, the Lord Mayor of Perth and the WA Department for Communities.
I'd like to participate, but I don't think I know enough. What should I do?
There is no need to worry, all training required will be provided in the lead-up to, and during the Program. You definitely don't have to have a degree in Politics to participate, you just need to be passionate about youth issues and willing to share your opinions.
Can I attend the Youth Parliament to watch?
Absolutely! Please email brehany.shanahan@ymcawa.org.au to organise entry into Parliament House. We welcome any interested people into our Youth Parliament at any time! The Youth Parliament schedule will be available on this website closer to the dates.
How can I get involved?
You can apply to be a Youth Parliamentarian if you are aged between 15-25. You can register and apply for a position from this website, or contact a member of the Taskforce if you would like more information.