Young leaders sought for council

A CALL-out has been made for up to eighteen young people aged between fourteen and twenty-four to be part of the City of Greater Bendigo Youth Council for the next two years.

Expressions of interest for positions on the 2025-2026 Council are now open and will close on Tuesday 19 November.

COGB CEO Andrew Cooney said the council is an initiative to engage with local youth in the City’s decision-making process for the future.

“The Youth Council represents the views of young people on City plans and programs that impact them,” he 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.

“I encourage young (adults) from all backgrounds and walks of life to consider applying so that the voices of all young people can be reflected and heard.”

2024 youth mayor Lilly Correll said the Youth Council is an opportunity for all young people to enhance their skills and give back to the community.

“Not only do you meet like-minded individuals, you also gain a real insight into the benefits of volunteering, including learning new skills and networking opportunities,” she said.

In the six years of the council, participants have provided input into over 50 City plans, strategies, policies, and projects, including the Council Plan 2021-2025, the Zero Emissions Roadmap, the Biodiversity Strategy, the LGBTIQA+ Action Plan, the Fair Access Action Plan, the E-scooter trial and the Managed Growth Strategy.

For more information, contact the City’s Youth Team via [email protected] or by calling 5434 6401.