Geelong members of the Victorian Youth Parliament program have met with Bellarine MP Alison Marchant to discuss water safety which is particularly relevant to beachside towns in our region.
Seventeen year old Georgia Neicho and 23 year olds Taia Hayter and Hayden Digby hosted a meeting on Wednesday at The Nest Youth Hub on Gheringhap Street to run the MP through their draft bill. The full details of the bill will be released when it is debated in State Parliament in July.
The hour-long conversation was productive and gave Marchant further insights the Youth Parliament program, how the team chose the water safety topic and why it matters. They also received valuable advice and guidance from the MP on preparing for and presenting their bill in Parliament.
The passionate trio represents Geelong in the Victorian Youth Parliament; a program that champions the voices of young people aged 16-25. This is the City's second year entering a local team and the first time we have partnered with Y Geelong to deliver the program.
The annual program teaches participants about the Victorian legislative system, while providing mentorship, skill development and a unique platform to influence state legislation on issues that are important to them.
During sitting week, Youth Parliamentarians introduce, debate, and vote on their bills. The bills that pass are formally presented to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman who then disseminates them to relevant state Members of Parliament for consideration.
Participants have successfully influenced legislation on critical issues such as mental health, education, and the environment in the past.
Deputy Mayor Ron Nelson
Council congratulates the local Youth Parliamentarians on their drive and advocacy.Hayden, Taia and Georgia did so well to use their voices and connect with a sitting member of parliament – something most people would be a bit nervous to do!
There are many challenges that young people and the broader community are facing in our region and it's so important to hear directly from those affected by these issues.
I thank the Youth Parliament for speaking up and hope their bill can make way for change.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
The Victoria Youth Parliament program is a valuable opportunity for young Victorians to have their voices heard, grow as leaders, and drive real change.I look forward to seeing them take the floor in Parliament and advocate for the issues that matter most to their communities.
Youth Parliament participant Taia Hayter
As a team, we are really hoping this bill opens up more conversations in swim safety that aren't talked about as much.We tried really hard to create topics that haven't been discussed as much to make water safer for everyone.
Note: The Victorian Youth Parliament program differs from the City's Youth Council program which is made up of 11 people aged 12-17 who learn about local government, receive mentoring and give advice to Council.
