A range of exciting and positive school holiday programs are already in full swing in Alice Springs and across the Northern Territory, providing young people with opportunities for creativity, learning, and community engagement.
The school holiday programs kicked off last week, with over 650 activities on offer in regional and remote communities plus a further 350+ in Alice Springs alone.
In Alice Springs, the free access to the local pool has attracted up to 750 visitors daily, offering a cool, safe space for youth and families to enjoy the summer holidays while in Katherine last Tuesday, over 60 skaters participated in a roller skating workshop, and on Sunday, 25 youth joined in a creative craft workshop, where they 'decorated a barra' to escape the heat.
Minister for Youth, Seniors and Equality, Jinson Charls, said the CLP Government is committed to creating spaces where young people feel safe, supported, and encouraged to engage in fun and meaningful activities.
"The free access to the aquatic centre in Alice Springs is a perfect example of how we are empowering young people to make the most of their summer," said Mr Charls.
In addition to swimming and water-based fun, the Alice Springs Town Council has already hosted seven activities, attracting more than 450 youth participants.
Today, Minister Charls visited the Alice Springs Library where 15 young people took part in a full booked drone workshop, where they'll learn how to operate drones and capture memorable moments from a new perspective.
"It's fantastic to see young people getting hands-on experience with technology like drones. Programs like these allow our youth to develop new skills that can lead to exciting future opportunities.
"I am proud to see so many young people in Alice Springs taking part in these programs," said Mr Charls.
"The energy and creativity from our young people is something to celebrate. These school holiday programs not only provide a much-needed break for our youth, but they also create lasting memories and friendships."
Minister Charls recently spent time with the 2024 Youth Round Table members as they concluded the year with a series of presentations for ministers and senior government officials.
"I got to hear some amazing, thought-provoking and considered presentations from some remarkable young people, including two young women from Central Australia," said Mr Charls.
Alice Springs Kyila Pepperill shared a presentation on local youth programs, emphasising the importance of On-Country programs and youth-led initiatives. While Lydia Budrikis highlighted the need for increased awareness of, and access to, mental health services for young people, and supporting young people in her community.
The next round of inspiring youth leadership is already underway with the 2025 NT Youth Week Ambassadors selected and already making a difference and keen to get more young people involved in Youth Week in April 2025.
Minister Charls recently met the Darwin based Youth Week Ambassadors to discuss their plans for next year.
"We must continue to celebrate and support the contributions of our youth. They are the future of the Territory, and we're committed to providing them with the opportunities and resources to thrive," said Mr Charls.
School holiday programs will continue across the Territory until school returns in 2025.
For a full list of events and activities in your community, visit School Holiday Activities NT online. here
