Nominations open for Geelong’s Youth Council

NOMINATIONS for a new Greater Geelong Youth Council will open later this month, after the concept was endorsed by the council at last week’s meeting.

The Youth Council will be open to young people aged between 12 and 17, and will feature equal representation from across the region, with three members from each of the four council wards.

Nominees will be voted on by members of youth advisory groups within their ward, and the 12 successful candidates will then elect a Junior Mayor.

The Youth Council will be an official advisory committee of the council, with the Junior Mayor to report quarterly.

The agenda will be shaped by the findings of an annual youth survey, open to all young people in Greater Geelong.

Initial priorities for the Youth Council will include social and community connections, mental health and wellbeing, and capability (such as skill development, education and employment).

The Youth Council will also be responsible for organising an annual youth summit.

Introducing a Youth Council was one of the recommendations of the Citizens’ Jury in January 2017, and was endorsed by the state government.

Nominations will be open from October 15-November 15, with meetings to be held at City Hall from January next year.

“The Youth Council will be the city’s new ‘youth voice’, so this is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of Greater Geelong,” Geelong mayor Bruce Harwood said.

“As a council we value the opinions of young people, and this committee will have a genuine impact on our decisions.

“If you’re aged between 12 and 17, you’re passionate, and you want to make a difference, we encourage you to nominate.

“It’s also a great chance to build your leadership skills and gain formal recognition, which will help your future career.”