Latrobe City Youth Council is seeking new members for the 2022 term to build their leadership skills, make new connections and provide input into Council's decision making.
Young people aged between 14-18 years old with ideas and energy about how to make Latrobe City Council a better place are invited to apply, with all backgrounds, abilities and identities welcomed.
The Youth Council will have a direct link with Latrobe City Councillors and will focus on the following priorities:
- Meaningfully engaging with Local Government, having their say on the plans and policies that impact current and future generations.
- Developing critical leadership and advocacy skills, while working with the community on capacity-building projects.
- Making new relationships with people outside of their peer-group, strengthening ties and supports across Latrobe City.
An information session will be held in January 2022 to give interested applicants a chance to hear from the current Youth Council and understand what's involved, the benefits and the time commitment.
Youth Council Mayor Natasha Murcott said the Council was a great way to connect young people in the community, build confidence and be empowered to make things happen.
"This can be seen through the Fab Food, Marvellous Mood project where we were trying to improve the quality of mental health within the community, the mental health training we participated in and other small events we have done or are planning on doing in the near future," said Natasha.
"Unfortunately, a lot of this year was spent online due to COVID, however, I still had the opportunity to read the affirmation at the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony and lay a wreath at the ANZAC Day Ceremony. I was also very thankful to still be able to get to know the other Youth Council members during the few in person interactions this year and I look forward to getting to know them better next year."
Latrobe City Council Mayor Cr Kellie O'Callaghan said the Youth Council offered an opportunity to grow the leadership skills of young people while informing Council decision making.
"We want to empower young people to share their ideas, think big and consider how they can influence the future of Latrobe City. As a Council, we are committed to strengthening the link between the decisions we make and the needs of young people, and this is a crucial way to do that."
