Young Victorians in the Werribee electorate are being encouraged to step up and have their voices heard on issues that matter to them as part of next year’s Victorian Youth Congress.

Youth Affairs Minister Jenny Mikakos has opened applications for the 21-member congress, which will meet regularly to research, discuss and propose solutions to a range of priority issues they identify.

Applications are open to those aged 12 to 24, with the aim to establish a congress that reflects the diversity of Victoria’s youth.

This should include Aboriginal young people, LGBTI young people, those living with disability, as well as young people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas today urged young people from the Werribee electorate to put their hand up to be part of the congress, so they can have their voices heard.

Members will also be selected to represent both metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.

This year’s Victorian Youth Congress – the first to be established – focused on mental health and wellbeing as a key issue, and presented a summary of its findings to Ms Mikakos in July.

Their final recommendations are currently being developed for further consideration by the Labor Government.

The Victorian Youth Congress is another way the Labor Government is amplifying the voices of young people and ensuring their involvement in decisions that impact on them – a key commitment of the Youth Policy: Building Stronger Youth Engagement in Victoria.

Applications close on Monday, 3 September, 2018.

For more information or to apply for the 2019 Victorian Youth Congress, visit youthcentral.vic.gov.au/youthcongress.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos

“I would like to thank each of our 2018 Youth Congress members for their passion, recommendations and commitment to improving Victoria – you were the first, and have left a wonderful footprint for those who follow.”

“I encourage every young Victorian to consider applying for the Youth Congress – this is a chance to make your voice heard and help shape government policy on issues that matter to young people.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Youth Congress has proven to be an exciting and innovative platform for young Victorians from all walks of life to get involved in decision making.”

“I urge every young person in the Werribee electorate who wants to make a difference and improve our society for the better to apply today.”