Ensuring young people are safe and supported

The Albanese Government is continuing to ensure young people have a say on the government policies that impact them, expanding the Youth Advisory Group program in 2024.

As part of the Government’s new Youth Engagement Model, five Youth Advisory Groups – made up of young people aged 16 to 25 – are selected each year with policy topics and group membership changing annually.

In 2024 there will be six groups, with the 2023 Safe and Supported Youth Advisory Group continuing their important work for a further year.

The 2023 Safe and Supported Youth Advisory Group is providing advice on the implementation of actions under Safe and Supported: the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children 2021-2031.

Safe and Supported is an important part of the Government’s vision that children and young people grow up safe, connected and supported in their family, community and culture, enabling them to reach their full potential.

In addition, the 2023 Safe and Supported Youth Advisory Group has provided input from young people on the National Early Intervention Trial for Adolescent Boys and on the National Housing and Homelessness Plan.

Applications are now open for the five new 2024 Youth Advisory Groups. With no experience required, young people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to have the opportunity to work with their peers and provide direct advice to government.

The 2024 Youth Advisory Groups will focus on a range of issues including youth employment, consent education and the prevention of gender-based violence, national arts policy First Nations education and the design of civic engagement initiatives.

For further information on the Youth Advisory Group program visit: youth.gov.au/youth-advisory-groups.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Dr Anne Aly

“Young Australians are uniquely placed to tell us about the problems they are facing and to shape solutions that actually work for them.

“The Safe and Supported Youth Advisory Group is providing invaluable perspectives and advice to help implement and shape government programs that will have an impact on young people.

“A government that not only works for young people but also with them, will be far more effective – delivering a better future for all of us.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth

“I wish to thank the Safe and Supported Youth Advisory Group for their valuable insights and advice on work in the portfolio so far.

“I look forward to continuing to work with the Group next year and ensuring the voices of young people and lived experience remain central to Government as we implement Safe and Supported.

“This is a great opportunity for young people to have a seat at the table and have a say on the issues that they care deeply about – and that impact them.”

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