The Minns Labor Government is celebrating the first anniversary of the Office for Youth, marking a year of listening, acting and delivering real results for young people across the state.
The former Liberal-National government abolished the youth portfolio in 2011, leaving young people without a voice in executive government for more than a decade.
Established by Minister for Youth Rose Jackson in 2025, the Office for Youth ensures children and young people are heard, respected and meaningfully involved in the decisions that shape their lives.
In just 12 months, that vision has turned into tangible action.
LISTENING
- More than 12,000 children and young people engaged through face-to-face consultations, events, surveys and training.
- Released the 2026 Youth Week Polling Report, providing critical insights into issues affecting young people such as mental health, bullying, housing, cost of living and a rise in the use of Artificial Intelligence.
- 12 new members onboarded to the 2026 NSW Youth Advisory Council, helping ensure young people’s voices inform government decision-making.
ACTING
- Published seven reports to strengthen evidence base for youth policy, covering issues such as mental health, education, e-bike safety and community connection.
- Contributed to 19 parliamentary inquiries and statutory reviews on youth justice, housing, racism and early childhood education, while advocating for improvements in care and protection, domestic and family violence services and youth homelessness
- Welcomed Katherine McKernan as Advocate for Children and Young people to drive systemic change and improve outcomes for young people across the state
DELIVERING
- More than $3 million delivered through grants supporting almost 1,500 free community events and activities for young people across NSW.
- $2 million invested in the Minns Labor Government’s Connect IRL program to help young people connect beyond screens and reduce social isolation.
The Office for Youth will continue to play a crucial role in driving the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing work to build a fairer New South Wales, where young people are directly involved in the decisions that impact their future.
Minister for Youth Rose Jackson said:
“One year ago, we established the Office for Youth because we wanted young people to have a stronger voice in the decisions that shape their lives.
“Over the past year, we’ve listened to what young people across NSW have told us matters most and backed that up with investment, opportunities and policies that respond to their needs.
“The vision for the Office for Youth is simple: to turn youth engagement into real influence and action across government. We want to meet young people where they are, cut through duplication and red tape, and make sure consultation leads to tangible outcomes and genuine accountability.
“Whether it’s funding community activities, tackling social isolation, supporting wellbeing, strengthening youth participation, creating more opportunities to get involved, or amplifying young people’s voices, we’re committed to delivering real outcomes for young people and the communities they call home.
“This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come, but it’s also a chance to look ahead. We know there is more to do, and we remain committed to working alongside young people, communities and partners to build a NSW where every young person feels heard, valued and supported.”
Advocate for Children and Young People Katherine McKernan said:
“Young people have told us they want to be listened to and involved in decisions that shape their futures.”
“Over the past year, the Office for Youth has worked alongside young people in communities across NSW, creating more opportunities for their voices to influence policy and practice.”
“We are proud of what has been achieved in our first year and remain focused on improving the safety, wellbeing and opportunities available to children and young people across the state.”
