Empowering the next generation of leaders

YOUNG people are the future of our city, and it’s incredibly encouraging to see our youth eager to take on civic responsibilities in our Youth Council.

Geelong’s Youth Council is the official “youth voice” for the region.

Comprising 11 individuals aged 12 to 17, the group collaborates to advise Council on issues that matter most to young people living in Geelong.

The City Greater Geelong’s Youth Development team is responsible for the group’s development, providing intensive support and building essential leadership skills.

Throughout the program, the Youth Council liaise with young people in the community to increase awareness and drive action on the issues that matter to them.

This year’s group have addressed a range of issues facing youth in Geelong, supported the opening of the Nest Youth Hub on Gheringhap Street and recently helped organise the 2025 Geelong Youth Awards.

We know the young people in our region are keen to share their thoughts with us. This year the inaugural 2025 Geelong Youth Survey received a more than 3,500 responses!

Given the chance to lead, our young people have proven themselves to be passionate, capable, and creative.

This year’s Youth Council have done a tremendous job, demonstrating fantastic leadership skills and decision-making capabilities that show they are all on the path to some very bright futures.

And now, we are calling on our community to help shape the 2026 Youth Council.

If you know a young person who wants to make a difference to their community, please encourage them to apply at geelongaustralia.com.au/youthcouncil

Nominations close on Friday, October 10, so make the most of the final moments of school holidays to put together a solid nomination today!

They don’t have to be the world’s best public speaker, or the one who leads fearlessly; they just need to have a keen interest in supporting their peers and working collaboratively for positive outcomes for our region’s youth.

Along the way, Youth Council participants receive valuable mentorship opportunities that will not only support them during their term but will equip them with important skills that can be used every day.

I had the pleasure of mentoring this year’s group in the Councillor Connect sessions, where myself and fellow City of Greater Geelong Councillors conversed openly about matters of interest to the participants.

Working with Youth Council through this program is one of the highlights of our year, and as councillors, we look forward to hearing their insights into what it’s like to be a young person in our region.

These conversations are vital in our decision making and help inform the projects, policies and events that best respond to the insights our Youth Council have provided us.

Unlike our Council, Youth Council representatives don’t represent their ward — they represent the entirety of youth in Greater Geelong.

If you know a young person with leadership potential who simply needs a push to succeed, please share this fantastic opportunity with them today.

The engagement and dedication shown by the current Youth Council prove that when young people are given a platform, their insights are invaluable. By encouraging a promising young person to apply, you are directly investing in the future direction of Geelong.

Don’t miss the deadline — help us empower the next generation of passionate, capable, and creative community leaders.