Two young Gunnedah students have taken their voices to Federal Parliament, highlighting housing concerns and the importance of regional health services.
Twelve-year-old Lilah was among 31 students from the Parkes electorate who participated in the Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign, which gives young Australians an opportunity to share their concerns with federal decision-makers.
Lilah was one of three students whose submissions were recognised as outstanding, alongside 12-year-old Kian from Coonamble and 16-year-old Molly from Dubbo.
In her submission, Lilah called on politicians to improve housing opportunities and create a better future for young Australians.
“I want young people to have a decent life where they have a unit. Parliament, if you are reading this speech, I want you to make an impact on our young civilians’ lives and make a change.”
Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey acknowledged all three students during a speech in Parliament as part of Youth Voice in Parliament Week.
“I would like to thank all of the 31 students who took the time to tell decision-makers what matters most to them, what they want us to understand, and what they think needs to change,” Chaffey said.
“It is incredibly important to hear from the people who are just starting their journey into leadership, and who are often impacted by the decisions made in Canberra. This campaign allows young people a direct conduit to the people who represent them.
“It was an honour to receive 31 articulate, well-considered submissions, and it would have been wonderful to read each and every one of them in Parliament during Youth Voice in Parliament Week this week, but unfortunately, parliamentary speaking times do not allow for this.
“Three students – 12-year-old Kian from Coonamble, 12-year-old Lilah from Gunnedah, and 16-year-old Molly from Dubbo – sent me outstanding submissions about their thoughts for the future. All three selected students did get an official mention in a speech I gave this week.
Gunnedah was also represented in Canberra by another 12-year-old student, Hallie, who spoke at the Power of Speech event at Parliament House.
Hallie, who has bilateral cochlear implants, shared her experience growing up with hearing loss and the impact of specialist hearing support.
She has received assistance from Next Sense since she was a baby, with her speech highlighting the importance of early intervention and access to services for children living in regional communities.
“Hallie spoke so well in Canberra, and it was a reminder of the difference early intervention and access to specialist services can make in a young person’s life,” Chaffey said.
“For families living in regional communities like Gunnedah, access to these services, including through telehealth, is particularly important.”
The Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign attracted 727 submissions nationwide, with education, cost of living, housing, mental health, and artificial intelligence and digital safety among the most frequently raised concerns.
The volunteer-run initiative aims to give young Australians a greater say in the political decisions shaping their futures.
More information is available at Raise Our Voice Australia.
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au