- Young leaders from across Queensland are coming together in Brisbane for the launch weekend of the 31st YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament.
- Ninety-three young people, aged 16 to 25, representing all 93 electorates in Parliament to be the voices of young Queenslanders.
- This weekend marks the start of the six-month program aimed at building personal development, leadership skills and public speaking.
The Crisafulli Government is proud to support this year's Queensland Youth Parliament, offering young people a unique opportunity to be heard on the issues young people care about and to gain firsthand experience of how parliament works.
Following a highly competitive selection process, 93 young Queenslanders were chosen from over 460 applicants to take part in this year's program.
Over the next six months, they will work with their local MP, learn about democracy and government, contribute to debates on big issues, and develop their leadership skills.
Young Queenslanders are driving change through Youth Parliament. After a Youth Bill was developed in 2024's Youth Parliament to address hyper-realistic 'deepfake' intimate image abuse, the Crisafulli Government is now taking action to criminalise this practice.
The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament has a proud history of fostering future leaders, with notable alumni including Member for Pumicestone Ariana Doolan, who participated in the program in 2020.
Minister for Youth Sam O'Connor said he has been impressed by the Youth Members' passion for their communities and the unique perspectives they bring on a broad range of issues.
"There's no better way for young Queenslanders to have their say than by stepping into the Youth Parliament, getting into the actual Parliamentary Chamber, and being part of the conversations that shape our state.
"Their insights and ideas are invaluable in how our government is shaping a brighter future for all Queenslanders," Minister O'Connor said.
Ari Travis, the 2026 Youth Member for Woodridge, brings a wealth of lived experience to the program, having faced challenges such as homelessness and involvement with the youth justice system.
He has also worked as a youth worker, supporting young people in residential care, homelessness outreach, and cultural programs.
"Leadership is not about titles or being the loudest voice in the room—it is about service, responsibility, and courage," Mr Travis said.
"Leadership means standing up for people who cannot stand up for themselves, especially when it is uncomfortable. Most importantly, leadership is about breaking cycles.
The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament continues to inspire and empower young people to make a difference in their communities and beyond, fostering the next generation of leaders for Queensland.
