GWELUP Progress Association president and student Taylor Watson said being involved in YMCA WA’s Youth Parliament program provides opportunities to learn new skills and pursue passions.
Ms Watson, one of 59 Youth Parliament participants, said she was passionate about encouraging young people to get involved in politics.
“I decided to apply for Youth Parliament because I saw a great opportunity to immerse myself in some of my biggest passions – law, government and communities,” she said.
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“Young people need to participate in our democracy and have a say about the issues that affect them.”
YMCA WA chief executive Ross Kyrwood believes this year’s participants, ranging in age from 15 to 24, will gain a lot from the experience.
“Youth Parliament embodies our belief in the power of inspired young people. This experience will allow young people to voice their opinions on issues that are important to them,” he said.
“Participants are supported by past participants who volunteer on the leadership Taskforce team, YMCA WA staff and partner organisations for each Bill they are presenting at Parliament.”
After careful consideration and research, this year the Bills to be presented before Parliament are Foster Care Reform, Indigenous Business and Economic Participation, Public School Funding and Redistribution, Online Sexual Harassment and Cyber Security, The Plastic Bag Eradication, Youth Affordability and Employment, Social Equity Reform and Youth Mental Health De-Stigmatisation Bill 2017.
YMCA WA mentoring manager Tim Galloway said the outcomes of the young people’s Bills were forwarded on to relevant ministers and community service organisations at the completion of the events.
“(This) is hugely empowering for our participants as their voices continue to be heard long after their time at Parliament House,” he said.
“It is our hope that the outcomes of the young people’s Bills are considered and acted upon by decision-makers or the young people themselves after the completion of the program’s core activities.”
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