Applications open for 2025 Youth Parliament

The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, is calling for young Victorians to participate in next year’s YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament.

The program promises to give 120 young Victorians aged 16 to 25 the chance to experience the parliamentary process up close.

The Youth Parliament has played an important part in shaping more than 30 Victorian laws – including bike helmet mandates, school uniform changes, and roadside drug testing.

Participants will engage in a three-day sitting at the Victorian Parliament next July, drafting, debating, and voting on bills.

“The Youth Parliament is an exciting opportunity for young people in our region to play a role in shaping the future of our state,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Laws impacting young people extends beyond concepts like school uniform changes, and I am hopeful that these students will get an opportunity to lend their voice to wider-reaching policy that will have an impact on their future.

“Many of the major areas that the Victorian Parliament influences, such as roads, hospitals, health systems, education, and emergency services, play a role in the lives of our younger generations and it is crucial that they are listened to.

“I encourage young people apply to be a part of the Youth Parliament and ensure that regional voices are heard.”

Applications are open until 13 October. Young people interested can apply via vicyouth.ymca.org.au/learning-and-leadership.