Young Novocastrians now have an opportunity to raise awareness on the issues that affect their lives in the community.

City of Newcastle (CN) is opening Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the organisation’s Youth Council Standing Committee.

The group gives people, aged 15 to 25, a platform to promote the interests of their peers, develop leadership skills and encourage participation in local matters.

It is one of eight advisory committees – along with 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 and Strategy & Innovation Strategic Advisory Committee – seeking volunteers who are keen to have a direct impact on issues, policies and initiatives that make a difference in Newcastle.

Heading into his second term as a representative on the Youth Council Standing Committee, Newcastle’s youngest-ever elected councillor and Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull admitted it was vital to engage the next generation in local government matters.

“These youngsters are the future leaders of our city, so we need to respect their ideas,” he 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.”

Participants 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 acquire 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.

Expressions of Interest are open until 24 January.

For more information, visit:
https://haveyoursay.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/standing-strategic-advisory-committees

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