Applications open for Youth Parliament

YOUNG Victorians have been encouraged to have their say on issues that matter to them as part of next year’s YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament.

Applications for the 2025 YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament are now open, and Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman called for young people across the state to apply.

The Victorian Government is investing more than $165,000 to support the program, which will give 120 young Victorians aged from 16 to 25 the opportunity to experience the parliamentary process first-hand.

Participants will draft, debate and vote on bills in a three-day intensive sitting held in the chambers of the Victorian Parliament in July next year.

Bills that pass Youth Parliament are presented to government for consideration.

Youth Parliament has helped shape more than 30 Victorian laws, including a new recycling scheme, mandatory wearing of bike helmets, banning the sale of soft drinks in government schools and neutral school uniforms.

The program also includes the YMCA Victoria Youth Press Gallery, which provides young people interested in journalism with an opportunity to develop political journalism, photography, videography and social media skills.

The Youth Press Gallery is responsible for developing and publishing content for a range of media outlets, including SBS and the ABC, managing social media, and shooting and editing footage of debates.

The YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament has been empowering young people to have their voices heard since 1987.

“We’re proud to support this program that gives young people an opportunity to experience how government works and be heard on issues that matter to them,” Ms Suleyman said.

“I encourage young people across Victoria to apply, get involved and use their voices to influence change.

“Our support for the Youth Parliament is one of the ways we’re backing young people in Victoria to lead, grow and reach their full potential.”

Applications are open until October 13. For more information or to apply, head to vicyouth.ymca.org.au/learning-and-leadership