Nominations open for Youth Council

THE search for Greater Geelong’s first Junior Mayor is on, with nominations for the city’s new Youth Council now open.

The Youth Council will be the official “youth voice” for the region, featuring three members from each of Geelong’s council wards.

All 12 to 17 year-old residents are encouraged to apply, and grab their opportunity to help shape the future of the municipality.

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 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 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 are open until November 15, with meetings to be held at City Hall from January next year.

“Young people have a unique view of the world, and they see and experience things that we might not,” Geelong mayor Bruce Harwood said.

“So they’re a great source of information in our community, and through the Youth Council we’ll get to learn what they’re thinking, how Geelong’s going from their point of view, and how we can help the region move forward.

“It’s a great opportunity to be heard, and to bring issues to the forefront that perhaps we haven’t been aware of as a council.”

Eligible young people can nominate by heading to geelongaustralia.com.au/youthcouncil.