Today, I am delighted to attend the inaugural meeting of the Premier’s Youth Advisory Council in Launceston.
The Council provides an invaluable opportunity for the Tasmanian Government to hear the voices, concerns and ideas of young people from diverse backgrounds, ages and communities on issues and policies affecting them.
I’m eager to work with them on the challenges and opportunities that they see as the greatest priorities for young Tasmanians.
The Council is comprised of young people aged between 12 and 25, who will advise me and the Government on how to best work together to deliver positive outcomes for young Tasmanians.
Council Member, Poppy Walker, 12 of Riverside said “Children have a view of life that no adult could understand. A view that could change the world if given the chance. This incredible opportunity has given us that chance, and hopefully is just a stepping stone for what we will become.”
Joshua Abeling, 18 of Launceston, is also a member of the council and said today’s meeting has seen his vision come to life. “I have fought for youth voices in the past, and this is an amazing opportunity to expand my advocacy. Directly ensuring that young people are represented on a legislative level has been a vision of mine for a long time, and my placement on the Youth Advisory Council is a privilege that I am grateful for” he said.
The establishment of the Council builds on the substantial work already underway across Government to support young people, as well as creating another avenue to hear their views directly.