Youth Council nomination period extended

DO YOU know a young person who wants to make a difference in their community?

They might be someone who asks thoughtful questions, notices issues and comes up with interesting ideas to fix them.

If so, they could be a perfect candidate for Greater Geelong’s next Youth Council.

Comprising 11 individuals aged 12 to 17, the Youth Council collaborates to advise Council on issues that matter most to their generation.

Past Youth Councils have tackled significant issues, such as the harm caused by vaping, demonstrating their leadership on key topics.

The 2025 Youth Council also helped design and promote the 2025 Geelong Youth Survey, which attracted a record 3,790 submissions, the strongest feedback we’ve ever had from local young people.

As the region’s official “youth voice”, being on the Youth Council is more than just attending meetings. It’s a chance to build confidence, learn how local government works, and connect with like-minded young people from all corners of Greater Geelong.

Participants are well-supported by the City’s Youth Development team with access to leadership training and the Councillor Connect mentoring program.

Working with Youth Council members through this program is one of my most meaningful tasks as a councillor. I am consistently impressed by the passion, creativity, and dedication of our young people.

Our catchups are genuine conversations where ideas flow freely, and I gain a clearer picture of what life is like for teenagers across Greater Geelong.

Their willingness to tackle topics like housing affordability and public safety gives me great confidence in the future.

If you know a young person who has the spark to make a difference, please encourage them to apply.

Sometimes a single conversation is all it takes for someone to put their hand up, and many of our past participants describe their Youth Council experience as one of their most rewarding to date.

Nominations for the 2026 Youth Council are now open and will be extended until Friday 10 October.

For more details and to apply, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/youthcouncilROAM Geelong Meanwhile, on Saturday 11 October, ROAM Geelong will take over the city from 4pm to 10pm.

This is the first time the event will take place in Geelong, and with more than 15 venues taking part, the central city will come alive as a creative wonderland.

The diverse program brings together internationally acclaimed performances and cutting-edge installations across Geelong’s unique arts and cultural precinct.

With electrifying live acts, immersive installations, striking visual art, and dynamic physical theatre, it’s a family event designed to inspire creativity and wonder.

The spectacular centrepiece of the event is a roaming giant falcon. The 4 m tall creature will move through Johnstone Park and surrounding streets, accompanied by light shows and soundscapes as day transitions to night.

ROAM Geelong is proudly presented by the City of Greater Geelong and supported by the Victorian Government through Visit Victoria and the Regional Events Fund.

To view the full program, visit roamgeelong.com.au

Cr Elise Wilkinson

Connewarre Ward,

City of Greater Geelong