Parliament is now in session as the 24th YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament officially opens today (26 April).
Minister for Youth Di Farmer said this year had seen the highest number of nominations ever from young people wanting to represent their community in Parliament.
“Young people today are so engaged and active with politics on many levels, so I’m not surprised to see more and more young people want to take part in the Queensland Youth Parliament,” she said.
“We want young people to feel like they can make a difference, that their voices are heard and they can influence laws and policies that affect them.
“We also want to see more young people consider entering politics – while the voice of experience is valuable, new ideas and approaches are also important to help our state progess into the future.”
Ms Farmer said Youth Parliament provided an opportunity for Youth Members to learn about parliamentary processes, and how to influence change.
“It is also a great opportunity for us as Members of Parliament over the course of the six month program, to listen to our Youth Members tell us what they think is important and what their community thinks is important.
“Congratulations to every Youth Member – I know you are going to do a fantastic job.”
The youth members were selected for their leadership skills, community involvement, interest in issues affecting young Queenslanders and ability to represent their communities.
Delivered by YMCA Brisbane, the Youth Parliament begins with a three day introduction in Brisbane (from 26 to 28 April) where members meet for the first time.
Ms Farmer said Youth Parliament would culminate in a residential sitting week at Parliament House (from 29 September to 5 October) where the Youth Parliament will debate each of the eight Youth Bills.
“Government makes a lot of decisions which affect young people, which is why we think it’s so important for young people to be involved in that decision making process,” she said.
“That’s why this government invests over $67,000 each year to support the program.
“It’s also why earlier this year we appointed our first ever Queensland Youth Engagement Panel, to hear directly from young Queenslanders about policies and issues which affect them.
“Supporting programs like the Youth Parliament demonstrate that we are committed to hearing the many voices of Queensland’s young people.”
