By Esther Lauaki
Plumpton’s Lily Trethowan will be part of a small contingent of young people from the west who will be adding their voice to this year’s Victorian Youth Congress.
Lily is one of 19 young people from across the state, three of those from the western suburbs, inducted into the government’s second Victorian Youth Congress.
Members of the advisory group, comprising young people aged between 13 and 24, will discuss issues affecting their peers and highlight areas of concern as well as shape government policies, programs and services.
Youth Minister Gabrielle Williams congratulated the appointed congress members as they gathered to meet earlier this month.
“I’m really excited to meet these talented and inspiring young people who are so committed to making life better for young people in Victoria,” Ms Williams said.
“Youth congress members will provide advice to the government on key issues affecting young people over the next 12 months – their thoughts and opinions will create change.”
She said the initiative was about engaging young people in shaping their future.
“It’s about amplifying the voices of young people and ensuring their involvement in decisions that impact on them – a key commitment of the Youth Policy: Building Stronger Youth Engagement in Victoria,” Ms Williams said.
The group includes members from Aboriginal, LGBTI and diverse backgrounds, as well as young people living with a disability.
Ms Williams said she hoped that this year’s initiative would build on the success of last year’s inaugural congress.
Details: www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au
