Youth hub name to be suggested by young people

THE City of Greater Geelong is fielding ideas for its new Youth Hub, with the new site set to open in early 2025 in Geelong’s CBD.

The city hopes young people from around the region will provide an abundance of input, with 12 to 25-year-olds asked to submit applications to naming the new facility.

Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said City Hall was eager to hear some exciting ideas.

“We want a catchy name that will give the hub an identity and help attract people through the doors,” Cr Sullivan said.

“It’s important that we deliver a youth hub that meets the needs and expectations of the community, so I want to thank those that have already given us great ideas and advice during the design process.”

The youth hub, to open next year at the Busport building on the corner of Gheringhap Street and Transit Place, will provide an inclusive space for young people to hang out, enjoy meals, access programs, and connect with support services.

Being assessed as a two-year pilot program, the project is also being supported by $400,000 from the Victorian government.

The city has also released findings from a comprehensive engagement process from more than 1100 local young people, to help shape the hub.

The hub will feature an open-plan area for socialising and group activities, spaces for gaming and quiet time, a multi-purpose room for a range of uses such as music and art, a kitchen, and an accessible bathroom.

“Young people in Geelong have had input into the design of the youth hub, and the services they want it to provide; it is fitting that they get to name the place that will serve their needs,” Geelong MP Christine Couzens said.

Submissions for Geelong youth hub name ideas close at 5pm on Friday, July 19. Visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/YouthHub to submit.