Young people from across Queensland who want to make their voices heard and empower their communities are urged to apply to participate in the 2023 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, with applications open today.

The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament offers Queenslanders aged 15 to 25 the opportunity to speak up for their communities and learn first-hand about parliamentary processes.

This year sees the 28th YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament. Every year, the program brings together 93 young people, representing each electorate in Queensland.

Minister for Youth Affairs Meaghan Scanlon said the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament offered a platform for young people across the state to have a say about important issues facing their communities, connect with their peers and learn about our democracy.

“Youth Parliament has a strong history of empowering young people to express their views and take up challenges to become leaders of the future,” Minister Scanlon said.

“In the past, ideas that have been formulated through Queensland Youth Parliament have become government policy.

“I encourage young people to nominate for this program as it provides an opportunity to build their leadership skills and learn about influencing change.”

Program participants will meet in Brisbane in April 2023 to form legislative portfolios and discuss ideas, and again in September for a residential program and the opportunity to debate their bills at Parliament House.

Between April and September, members of each portfolio will collaborate to write their bills, as well as design and implement community action plans.

Participants in Years 11 and 12 are also eligible to receive one point towards their Queensland Certificate of Education upon the completion of their term as a Youth Member, as the program is accredited by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority.

Minister Scanlon praised YMCA Brisbane for continuing to successfully steer the landmark youth program.

“It is a testament to YMCA Brisbane’s commitment that the program continues to challenge young people and provide an opportunity for them to share their ideas of change with the government,” she said.

The Queensland Government provides annual funding to YMCA Brisbane to run the program.

Nominations opened today, Monday 30 January 2023, and will close at 11.59pm on Sunday 19 February 2023.

For more information about the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, email [email protected] or go to www.ymcaqyp.org.au.

ENDS

Media contact:                   DES Media Unit on (07) 3339 5831 or [email protected]