Yarra Ranges school students posed questions and reflected on the future at Council's youth summit hosted in Lilydale on Thursday, 20 March.
Fifty students from six schools attended the event and gave feedback, shared ideas, and learned about the role of local government in their community.
The day concluded with a Q&A panel with Mayor, Jim Child, and Councillors Richard Higgins and Peter McIlwain, with students having the opportunity to pose questions.
Cr Child said that the Youth Summit was the best youth consultation he had been part of, and was grateful for the chance to hear so many young voices.
"It was wonderful to hear such creative ideas as well as thoughtful criticism from students. They used their unique experience as young people in the Yarra Ranges to advocate for issues that impact them," he said.
"Students spoke with passion about public transport challenges, the need for easier access to healthcare, more music venues, lowering the voting age, and more inclusive spaces."
Teachers took photos of their students sitting in the Council chambers, while Cr Child said "It's inspiring to think that these students could end up back here in these very chambers as Councillors."
Students provided feedback on the developing Health and Wellbeing Strategy and the Council Plan 2025-2029 by ranking proposed actions from most important to least, then sharing a youth perspective on proposed projects.
The students also took part in an engaging where they explored the complex roles and responsibilities of local, state, and federal government.
To reflect on the day, students were asked to share their big picture hopes for the Yarra Ranges looking 25 years into the future.
Students shared feedback such as:
- "More community festivals and markets.",
- "More safe spaces to hang out or participate in sport during the day and night.",
- "More education on Indigenous culture in all schools."
