A parliamentary preview

Youth Minister Tony Simpson said participants were able to express their concerns in a public domain while gaining skills around research and planning, along with negotiation and public speaking.

Transport, education reform, under-age drinking and renewable energy were some of the issues debated during the program.

University of WA political science and international relations, and history student Adam Walker (20), of Woodvale, said he wanted to learn about the parliamentary process and about being a member of parliament.

Sacred Heart College Year 11 student Matthew Kolomyjec (16) said he honed his public speaking skills spending the majority of the week debating legislation.

He said he had most looked forward to presenting the Justice Bill he helped write which tackled repeat offenders in drug and firearm offences.

Connolly's Nathan Mullally (16) said he�d loved watching question time and voicing his opinion in the chamber had been exciting.

"I think this program has really pulled me out of my comfort zone and opened me up to an opportunity to let my voice be heard and that's really important for young people," he said.

Quinns Baptist College Year 12 student Jordan Dyce (17), of Kinross, said the program had helped develop his public speaking skills and professional conduct.

"This program has also helped me confirm my future hopes to be part of the political system one day and has contributed to my knowledge of what happens in our State parliament," he said.

Burns Beach's Lewis Hutton (17), who also attends Quinns Baptist College, said it had given him an opportunity to meet like-minded people from all corners of the State.

"I think the biggest issue facing youth in WA is that we are growing up in a State and a country that is too heavily focused on the now instead of the future," he said.

Mr Simpson said the experience may motivate the participants to put the skills they acquire to good use in their communities and empower them to be advocates for their community.

For copies of the Bills debated, visit youthparlwa.com or for more information, visit dlgc.wa.gov.au/youth.