Brimbank teenagers can express their interest to join the National Youth Parliament in 2026.
One hundred and fifty senior school students, each representing one of Australia’s federal electorates, will be selected for the program which the federal government said aims to equip 16 and 17 year olds with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to actively participate in Australia’s democratic and parliamentary system.
Youth members will travel to Canberra for a five-day program held across Australian Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House.
The program will involve hands-on learning experiences, including mock parliamentary debates, workshops with political leaders and real-world policy challenges.
Gorton MP Alice Jordan-Baird said she can’t wait to meet the local youth parliamentarian for the electorate.
“We have a young and diverse community here in Gorton, and when young people understand how the system works, we’re better equipped to hold it to account,” Ms Jordan-Baird said.
“I want young people to be empowered to shape our communities.”
The program will be delivered by the Department of the House of Representatives (DHR) in collaboration with Youth Parliament program provider, Y Australia.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick said the establishment and delivery of the program was a major priority for him as speaker.
“The future of Australia’s great democracy is in the hands of our young Australians, and this is one way they will be able to shape it for future generations,” Mr Dick said.
Y Australia chief executive Alexandra Ash said she’s thrilled to work with the DHR on the program.
“We don’t just want young people to vote when they turn 18, we want them to understand why their vote matters, how decisions are made, and how they can influence them. Education in civics and democracy is key to that,” Ms Ash said.
Young people can submit their interest in the program to nyp.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au.
Expressions of interest close on 21 November.
All costs associated with the program, including travel and accommodation, are covered, and no prior political experience is required.
The federal government is also encouraging youth from marginalised backgrounds to express their interest.
