City begins search for next young leaders

YOUNG people with a passion for advocacy and service are encouraged to run for the City of Greater Geelong’s Youth Council in 2020.

This year saw the inaugural Youth Council engage with their peers from across the region in a bid to help council represent young people in its decision making, serving a successful first term.

The 2020 Youth Council will provide advice to the COGG on specific issues, attend and participate in Youth Council meetings and be part of community events.

Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the region’s young people could have a lasting influence on Geelong.

“The Geelong Youth Council is a fantastic opportunity for young people to learn about local government, advocate on important issues, receive mentoring and provide advice to council,” Cr Asher said.

“Our young people are full of clever and creative ideas, which could go towards helping to shape the region’s future. I encourage young people aged between 12-17 to apply to become part of our city’s official youth voice.”

The city’s first junior mayor Josie Horne, who recently presented her fourth and final report to council, said being part of the Youth Council was a great chance to “get young people’s voices heard” while learning about local government.

“I really encourage young people to run for council. It’s been a fun and interesting experience that I’ve learnt a lot from.”

This year’s Youth Council set out to tackle three priority issues – homelessness and public safety, the environment and mental health and wellbeing.

The junior mayor has recently given feedback to the city about its new civic precinct, recommending that the environment, accessibility and safety be both prioritised and recognisable within the space.

Eligible nominees must live in the greater Geelong local government area, be aged between 12 and 17 years at the time of nomination, be able to attend 80 per cent of meetings and participate in the Youth Council induction (January 23), submit their own nomination and submit a parent or guardian consent along with their application.

Nominees will be voted on by members of youth advisory groups within their ward, with the 12 successful candidates to elect the junior mayor.

Nominations are now open by searching “Youth Council” via geelongaustralia.com.au. Submissions close on January 5.