Applications invited for National Youth Parliament

APPLICATIONS have opened for next year’s edition of the National Youth Parliament.

Through this program, young people from all walks of life will engage directly with civics and parliament.

It aims to equip those aged 16 and 17 with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to actively participate in Australia’s democratic and parliamentary system.

Through hands-on learning experiences, including simulated parliamentary debates, workshops with political leaders, and real-world policy challenges, students will gain a deeper understanding of how parliament works and the process by which bills are drafted, debated and passed into law.

Youth members will travel to Canberra for a five-day program held across Australia’s Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy in Old Parliament House.

All costs associated with the program including travel and accommodation are covered.

The Department of the House of Representatives is working with experienced Youth Parliament program provider, Y Australia to deliver the program.

The Y has been running youth parliament programs for more than four decades.

“We don’t just want young people to vote when they turn 18, we want them to understand why their vote matters, how decisions are made, and how they can influence them,” Y Australia chief executive officer Alexandra Ash said.

“Education in civics and democracy is key to that, and we’re thrilled to work with the Department of the House of Representatives on this initiative.”

National Youth Parliament also has bipartisan support among the major parties.

“The establishment and delivery of a National Youth Parliament program was a major priority for me as speaker,” speaker of the House of Representatives and Oxley Labor federal member Milton Dick said.

“I am proud to be giving young Australians a brand-new opportunity to learn about civics and our parliamentary system.

“The future of Australia’s great democracy is in the hands of our young Australians, and this is one way they will be able to shape it for future generations.”

Wannon Liberal federal member Dan Tehan encouraged young people to apply.

“When young people understand how the system works, they are better equipped to hold it accountable and improve it,” he said.

“This isn’t just good for them, it’s good for the whole community.”

Young people who will be aged 16 or 17 in August 2026 are encouraged to submit an expression of interest to nyp.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au