Young Novocastrians are being given the chance to raise awareness of the issues that affect their lives and provide strategic advice on how to make Newcastle a better place to live.
Expressions of interest are now open for City of Newcastle's Youth Council Standing Committee, which gives people aged 15 to 25 a platform to promote the interests of their peers, develop leadership skills and encourage youth participation in community matters.
The Youth Advisory Committee helps with initiatives such as the Youth Mock Council, seen here in the former Council Chambers in 2022.It is one of eight advisory committees now seeking volunteers who are keen to have a direct impact on local issues, policies and initiatives that make a difference in Newcastle.
Heading into his second term as a Councillor representative on the Youth Council Standing Committee, Newcastle's youngest ever elected Councillor and Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull says it's vital to engage the next generation in local government matters.
"These young representatives are the future leaders of our city, so we need to respect their ideas," Cr Pull said.
"Our members work together to identify key issues impacting youth and develop strategies that encourage solutions and contribute to a more inclusive and youth-friendly Newcastle.
"By fostering youth leadership, promoting active participation, and giving young people a voice in local matters, we are not only empowering the next generation but also strengthening the fabric of our community."
Community representatives serve on a voluntary basis for the four-year Council term and have an active role in organising activities for young people, as well as guiding the implementation of the Newcastle 2040 Community Strategic Plan.
Members can provide advice for organisations wishing to develop programs and activities for young people and help to facilitate interactions between people with diverse interests and backgrounds.
Representatives also develop leadership skills through planning youth initiatives and staging events during Youth Week celebrations, as well as helping to allocate Youth Week grants and assisting Council to prepare applications.
The Youth Council is one of eight advisory committees run by City of Newcastle.
The other committees seeking new members are the:
• Access Inclusion Standing Committee
• Guraki Aboriginal Standing Committee
• Public Art Standing Committee
• Community & Culture Strategic Advisory Committee
• Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee
• Liveable Cities Strategic Advisory Committee
• Strategy & Innovation Strategic Advisory Committee
