Comprising 25 passionate and dedicated young individuals from diverse backgrounds, Council’s newly announced Youth Advisory Group (YAG) will serve as a vital platform for amplifying the voices of the next generation and informing key decisions that impact youth within our community.
Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said the Youth Advisory Group demonstrates Councils commitment to youth empowerment ensuring a brighter future for themselves and generations to come.
“The formation of this advisory group underscores our unwavering belief in the power of youth engagement and the invaluable perspectives they bring to the table.
“By actively involving young people in the decision-making process, we are not only fostering a culture of inclusivity but also ensuring that policies, programs, and initiatives are reflective of the needs and aspirations of our youth.
“The group work directly with Council staff to help identify the needs and wants of young people in the region.” Mayor Heins said.
This group is made up of five young people representing each of the five council wards and are aged between 12 and 24-years of age for a two-year term.
Commitment to the program includes having a shared interest in contributing to the future of the Northern Beaches community and being advocates for their peers as well as monthly meetings, various skills development, training and volunteering opportunities available.
As well as gaining valuable life and employment skills, successful applicants will also have the chance to make new friends and enjoy benefits such as free entry to youth events.
This year’s YAG’s come from 10 different schools, two universities and have both self-employed and part-time members.
Key goals for the group over their 2-year term include:
- Working to address YAG focused actions in the Youth Voice Action Plan 2028.
- Supporting the Beaches Leadership Team, which is a school captains network representing a number of local high schools to deliver Have Your Say Day 2024 and 2025 – a youth driven initiative building the collective voices of your people across the Northern Beaches as well as Northern Sydney.
- Provide consultation to internal and external services on matters impacting young people on the Northern Beaches
- Advocate for their peers by bringing issues, opportunities or events to the attention of Council through their Youth Driven Agenda at meetings
“I can’t wait to see the group thrive and make meaningful contributions. Their voices matter, and we are dedicated to listening, learning, and taking action based on their insights and recommendations.” Mayor Heins said.