Armidale Regional Council (ARC) has announced the establishment of a new Youth Council to provide young people with a formal platform to contribute to council planning, programs and decision-making.
Young people across the Armidale region are encouraged to learn more about the initiative, express interest in becoming Youth Councillors and stay involved as the advisory body is established.
The Youth Council will provide advice, perspectives and ideas on issues affecting young people in the community.
Mayor Sam Coupland said he welcomed the re-establishment of the Youth Council.
“Council engages with young people through a range of programs and initiatives, but since the cessation of the previous Youth Council years ago, there has not been a formal structure in place to ensure appropriate youth representation in Council decision making.
“By establishing a Youth Council, we are creating a regular and meaningful way for young people to be heard and to help shape the future of our region,” Coupland said.
“I’m particularly pleased that this initiative supports leadership development and gives young people the opportunity to influence decisions that directly impact their lives.”
The decision to establish the Youth Council was endorsed at ARC’s ordinary council meeting on 22 April. The initiative aligns with the council’s Community Strategic Plan, particularly in strengthening community participation, leadership and future-focused planning.
“An effective Youth Council should reflect the diversity of Armidale Region,” Coupland said.
“It must include young people from across the community with different ideas, experiences and perspectives.”
Expressions of interest are being sought from young people aged 12 to 24 who live within the Armidale Regional Council local government area. Membership will aim to reflect the diversity of the region, including representation from Aboriginal young people, those living in urban areas and rural villages, and refugee and migrant communities.
Council staff will work with key stakeholders to support the recruitment and engagement of young people from diverse backgrounds.
“Importantly, this is not about duplicating existing groups such as school SRCs, youth groups, or the wonderful Armidale Multicultural Youth Consultative Committee,” Coupland said.
“Instead, we want to tap in and harness those networks by creating a clear contact point that connects young people and representative bodies across our region.”
Further information, including details on how to express interest in joining the Armidale Regional Youth Council, is available on the council’s website.
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