- Applications for the YMCA WA 2024 Youth Parliament are now open
- Unique opportunity for young people to learn and participate in democratic processes
Applications are now open for 15- to 25-year-olds to take part in the Y's (YMCA WA) 2024 Youth Parliament.
Members of Youth Parliament will have the opportunity to gather in the Houses of the Western Australian Parliament to debate bills, giving them first-hand experience of our State's parliamentary processes.
This year marks the 29th year of Youth Parliament where participants act as "youth members", representing a State electorate and having their bills debated based on their interests and concerns.
They are then presented to the Governor, Premier and Leader of the Opposition in WA for reflection and consideration.
Fifty-eight young people participated in 2023 Youth Parliament, where bills were presented and a range of issues were debated including artificial intelligence, recycling and electoral reform.
The Department of Communities has provided $63,208 to fund the 2024 Youth Parliament.
The 2024 Youth Parliament program will be officially opened by the Youth Minister at a Parliament House ceremony on Monday, 8 July. Following the ceremony, Youth Parliament will convene for three days at Parliament House.
Applications close on Sunday, March 24 2024. For more information, visit: https://www.ymcawa.org.au/what-we-do/youth-services/western-australian-youth-parliament
As stated by Youth Minister Hannah Beazley:
"Youth Parliament is wonderful introduction into politics and democratic processes.
"Young people are given practical experience in leadership, public speaking, writing legislation and working as a team to achieve outcomes. I would encourage young people to get involved and have their voices heard.
"I have always been impressed by Youth Parliament representatives in the past, and the ideas they've brought forward and thoughtfully debated.
"I look forward to welcoming this year's participants and opening my first Youth Parliament as Minister for Youth."
