The Youth Action Council is taking a fresh start and is looking for new candidates to join and be a part of the group.
The Youth Action Council is the peak body representing young people and the services that support them in Orange.
Orange City Council Services Policy Committee Chair, Cr Mel McDonell said it is important for young people to voice their opinions and engage in youth events that affect our local community.
“I think that this unique youth-led initiative is such a great opportunity for young people to voice their opinions about what they really want in Orange. We want them to be part of the decision-making process,” Cr McDonell said.
“It is also a great opportunity for them to learn the decision-making process, how to voice their opinion and how to disagree and make compromise.”
The Youth Action Council provides a flexible platform for young people to start conversations on issues and topics important to them and take a leadership role in the planning and organisation of events and activities for young people, including Youth Week and Child Protection Week.
The Youth Action Council consists of 15 young people aged from 12 to 24, that reside and/or attend school within the Orange Local Government Area.
Orange City Council Development Officer, Jarrad Szczudlo said that the meetings will discuss what matters to young people and turn their ideas into reality.
“Young people are often not thought of and are looked over because they are young,” Mr Szczudlo said.
“The group is about providing young people with a voice to Council to let them know young people matter and should be counted.”
During monthly meetings, young people will consult with the Youth Hub team to organise relevant activities for young people but also learn about what local government does for younger communities.
“National Youth Week, charity events, mental health, social media, jobs, housing, global warming are examples of the issues that will be on the table during the Youth Action Council meetings,” Mr Szczudlo said.
Cr McDonell said the Action Council was a conduit to Orange City Council.
“In addition to providing suggestions and comments on local government policies and programs for young people, Youth Action Council members will also be able to contribute to the planning and running of youth event and activities with will be a great addition to their résumé,” Cr McDonell said.
Members of the Youth Action Council will also have the opportunity to network with local and regional government, non-government, and community groups relating to young people.
Young people are invited to join all year round, membership is valid for a two-year term. Meetings will be held the first Tuesday of each month, from 4pm to 5.30pm. Specific positions will be elected at the beginning of the new calendar year. Positions will include Chairperson and Vice Chairperson.
