Changing states: youth week rebadged

NATIONAL Youth Week is now Victorian
Youth Week, and the state government says it is increasing its contribution following a lack of federal support.

The week-long celebration of young people was held annually throughout Australia (typically in March or April) under the National Youth Week banner, but now each state will hold its own uniquely-named festival.

More than 24,000 young people took part in the 2017 National Youth Week, with 46 grants provided to regional Victoria and 59 grants to metropolitan Melbourne, jointly funded by the state and federal governments.

Projects in the Geelong region this year included Connected, Heard and Celebrated hosted by the Golden Plains Shire, the SHEBANG! Youth Music Event in Anglesea, and a mental health mural painted by the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre.

Victorian Minister for Youth Affairs Jenny Mikakos last week urged community organisations and councils that work with young people to apply for grants of up to $2,000 for activities during the 2018 Victorian Youth Week, which will run from April 13-22.

The grants aim to support young people in planning and delivering events, promote a positive image of young people, and help them to express their ideas and be heard in the community.

Grants are available for events such as art exhibitions, musical performances, cultural celebrations, sporting competitions, and forums on issues of concern such as body image and mental health.

Projects must be accessible to young people aged 12 to 25 in their local community, be alcohol, smoke and drug-free, and delivered within safe environments.

“We want every young person to have the opportunities and support they need to reach their full potential,” Ms Mikakos said.

“Victorian Youth Week is the perfect time for young people to showcase their skills and talents and to be recognised for their vital contribution to their communities.”

“The Turnbull Government clearly has no interest in supporting Victoria’s young people. Our government is investing more because we know how important young people are in helping shape our state’s future.”

Applications for grants must be submitted by November 24.

Head to youthcentral.vic.gov.au.