Hume council, in partnership with the Foundation for Young Australians, is launching a new youth council.
The Young Mayors program is supporting young people aged 12 to 17 to be elected to the Hume Youth Council, positioning young people as decision makers on issues that impact their future.
Elected by young people in Hume, the youth council will work closely with council and each other to define priority areas and implement projects and events.
“Young people bring enormous value to Hume. We know there are outstanding ideas just waiting to be harnessed by the elected youth council that will ensure Hume continues to thrive,” mayor Jarrod Bell said.
“Our council wants to support young people to be actively involved in our community. We’re excited to work with FYA to make that happen through the young mayors program.”
The program will help young people learn and participate in local government in ways that will influence decisions that impact their community.
“Local governments play a huge role in the everyday lives of people in our communities, and that includes young people. But young people are often locked out of power – consulted but never in charge,” FYA young mayors executive director Tahlia Azaria said.
“This program puts young people in the driver’s seat – ensuring that council policies and programs better reflect the concerns, needs and desires of local young people.”
Designed by FYA, the young mayors program is being piloted in Hume as well as Mackay, Cairns, Hepburn and Wollongong.
The young mayors launch event will be held on Wednesday, June 4 at the Craigieburn Global Learning Centre, from 5pm to 7.30pm.
The launch event will include live performances, speeches and information about the program and how you can join.
Details: you@hume.vic.gov.au, 9205 2556 or fya.org.au/young-mayors-hume/
