- Youth Parliament officially opened today for its 30th year
- 58 young people will debate bills and issues in WA Parliament
- Leadership program provides opportunity for young people to have their voices heard
Youth Minister Hannah Beazley has officially opened the Y WA's 2025 Youth Parliament, marking the program's 30thyear of empowering the State's bright young leaders.
Fifty-eight young people aged 15 to 25 from across Western Australia were welcomed to WA Parliament today ready to gain first-hand experience of the State's parliamentary processes.
Each Youth Parliament member will represent a State electorate in the Legislative Assembly, advocating for their peers and communities.
The group will convene at WA Parliament for three days where they will present and debate bills they have drafted to tackle a range of important issues, including family and domestic violence, the green energy transition and regional ambulance services.
It follows a four-month program facilitated by the Y WA where the young people honed their leadership skills and worked in committees to write their own legislation.
At the conclusion of the program, their bills will be presented to the Governor, Premier and Leader of the Opposition for reflection and consideration.
The Youth Parliament program has been amplifying the voices of young Western Australians since 1995, offering an important platform to raise their ideas and advocate for them.
Several program alumni have gone on to represent their communities in State and Federal Parliament.
The Department of Communities has provided $91,500 to fund the 2025 Youth Parliament as part of the Cook Government's commitment to improving outcomes for young people in WA.
For more information, visit www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-communities/young-people
As stated by Youth Minister Hannah Beazley:
"For three decades, Youth Parliament has provided a launch pad for some of our State's brightest young leaders, offering a unique opportunity to participate in our democratic process and have their voices heard.
"Youth Parliament is an incredible showcase of young people's capabilities as they debate and craft their own innovative solutions to the big issues facing our State, with some of their ideas going on to shape real legislation.
"Importantly, Youth Parliament continues to become more accessible and diverse each year, bringing together 58 young people with different perspectives and experiences from across Western Australia.
"I look forward to seeing our 2025 Youth Parliament Members in action and I am sure they will continue to use the skills gained through this experience to make a positive impact in their communities."
As stated by the Y WA Chief Executive Officer Tim McDonald:
"This program offers a powerful platform and insight into Australian politics.
"Fifty-eight inspiring young people have gained a strong sense of belonging surrounded by young people who equally want their voice to influence WA politicians and leaders.
"They have also created lifelong meaningful connections as they advocate for change in areas that they truly believe in."
