Albanese Government empowering young Australians

The Albanese Government is ensuring young Australians are engaged in the development of government policies and programs directly affecting young people.

Minister for Youth, Dr Anne Aly today announced the appointment of 40 young people to five Youth Advisory Groups that will work with the Government on the issues that matter to them.

This week the Youth Advisory Group members will travel to Parliament for their first meetings with Ministers and government agencies.

Aged 16 to 24, the Advisory Group members were selected from more than 930 applications from across Australia, representing the breadth of diversity of young Australians and their experiences.

This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, members from culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds, members from regional or remote Australia along with gender diverse members, members from LGBTQIA+ communities and members with disability.

Additionally, several of the group members have experienced out of home care, the justice system or are young carers.

The Advisory Groups will provide advice to the Government, across matters in the portfolios of Climate Change and Energy, Indigenous Australians, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Industry and Science and Social Services. Group membership and topics will be revised annually.

The Youth Advisory Group topics were determined in consultation with the Albanese Government’s Youth Steering Committee – who will also be traveling to Parliament this week.

Attributable to Minister for Youth Dr Anne Aly

“I’m looking forward to working with all members of the Advisory Groups and seeing what we can do to improve the lives of young Australians together.

“Young people make up 15 per cent of our population and for too long they haven’t had the opportunity to meaningfully contribute to national policies and programs.

“We know young people can help develop the solutions that work best for them. So, by involving them in the decision-making from the beginning, we can ensure policies and programs built for them have the best chance of success.”

Attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen  

“Participation of young Australians in climate action is a key part of our transformation to becoming a clean energy economy and our future as a renewable energy powerhouse.

“I look forward to hearing from members of this Youth Advisory Group on how they believe Australia can continue to demonstrate leadership on climate action.”

Attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth are our future, and it is essential that they are involved in decisions that impact them.

“I look forward to seeing the positive results achieved through the First Nations Youth Advisory Group and working with these young people towards the bright future of First Nations youth.”

Attributable to Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler

“The mental health and wellbeing of young people is a top priority, especially in regional and rural areas – where digital technologies can play a positive role.

“We need to ensure our mental health programs are accessible and working for young people – the Advisory Group will play an important part in making this a reality.”

Attributable to Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic

“We want young people from all corners of the community to be heard loud and clear about the best ways to help them pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

“We need the energy and idea of young Australians to help create start-ups and new firms that will help strengthen the economy and communities.”

Attributable to Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth

“Young Australians have unique experiences that we can all learn from, ensuring the government services we deliver are meeting their needs.

“All Australians should have the opportunity to thrive – no matter their background. This group will help ensure all young Australians have the supports they need.”

Youth Advisory Group Members