Call out for youth councillors

YOUNG people from across the City of Greater Bendigo are being invited to apply to join the municipality’s Youth Council.

Up to 18 places on the consultative body are available with people aged between 14 and 24 encouraged to put their hand up.

Run by the City’s youth arm, YO Bendigo, the group provides feedback on municipal plans and projects and represents the region’s young people at events and ceremonies.

This year’s mayor of Youth Council, Victoria Tangey, said being part of the group enabled young people to have an impact on the City’s future.

“Anyone aged 14 to 24 who has an interest in leadership, governance or youth affairs should apply, because contributing to community on a strategic level allows you to create real change and make Greater Bendigo a better place for young people,” she said.

“Young people are not the leaders of tomorrow, we have the skills and abilities to be leaders today.

“Youth Council as a collective have the power to influence City policy and strategies, we are a valued part of the City’s community consultation, and we create positive outcomes for the young people of Greater Bendigo.

“I encourage young people to apply as they will learn so much and have the opportunity to be involved in some really great projects.”

Successfully candidates who make the Youth Council will be required to undertake an induction and their first meeting in February next year.

Set to enter its fifth year of operation, City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said input from youth councillors was welcomed and meaningful.

“The Youth Council is an initiative to engage with local young people in the decision-making process for the future,” she said.

“It also fulfils a key goal of the City’s Council Plan 2021-2025 to ensure young people are supported to explore, engage and be empowered to shape the world they live in.

“The first four years of the Youth Council have been very successful with youth councillors providing input into over 40 City plans, strategies, policies and projects. They have also represented young people on over ten advisory and steering committees.”

Applications to join Youth Council for 2023 close at 12am on Monday, 31 October. Visit yobendigo.com.au for more info.