Young people from across Western Australia will present their ideas for State legislation as part of the 31st Youth Parliament, a program designed to empower the next generation of leaders.
Program Overview
Fifty-nine young people, representing each of the State’s electorates, have been selected to participate in the Y WA program. Over four months, they will undergo intensive training in public speaking, leadership, and parliamentary procedure. The program combines weekly online meetings, three full-day training workshops, and a residential camp, where participants collaborate to research issues, draft legislation, and prepare for debate on topics spanning any State Government portfolio.
Training and Development
The group has already gathered for the program’s inaugural training camp, the first of three residential camps designed to build their skills and confidence. These camps provide a supportive environment for participants to develop their abilities and form connections with like-minded peers.
Culmination at Parliament House
The program will culminate in July, when participants take to the floor of Parliament House to debate their bills in a live chamber setting. After the debate, all proposed legislation will be formally presented to the State Government and Opposition, WA Governor Chris Dawson, Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds, and the Department of Communities for consideration. Past ideas have included a coercive control bill in 2020.
Support and Leadership
The program is run by the Y WA and delivered by young volunteers, many of whom are former participants. It is supported by the WA Parliament, the Department of Communities, and Wormall Group WA. Y WA CEO Tim McDonald emphasised the program’s impact: “This program brings together 59 outstanding young people and gives them not only a voice but a genuine sense of belonging. Through the Y WA Youth Parliament, they build confidence and capability, develop independence, and form meaningful connections with each other and their communities. These are the foundations that enable young people to thrive and contribute positively to society.”
Participant Perspectives
Ziana Abdullah
Ziana Abdullah, from Cloverdale, representing the Belmont electorate, is experiencing the Youth Parliament for the first time. “I want to be a part of the Y WA Youth Parliament because I’m passionate about having a say in issues that affect young people such as my peers,” she said. “I think it is a really unique opportunity to not only become more educated about the legislative process, but to actively contribute ideas and represent the perspectives of people my age in Western Australia.” Ziana’s area of interest is the environment, as it directly impacts young people’s lives. “I also think new discoveries related to reducing our impact and waste is very interesting,” she added. Through the program, she hopes to develop her confidence, public speaking skills, and understanding of policymaking. “I am keen to collaborate with like-minded people and contribute to meaningful and interesting discussion and ideas that could lead to positive change,” she said. “It is important to me that young people have a voice because the decisions being made today directly affect our tomorrow. Young people bring fresh, innovative perspectives, lived experiences and ideas that have not been considered before. Without that input, policies may not fully reflect our needs. Having a voice empowers young people to be active participants in society rather than just observers.”
Raghda Arbab
Raghda Arbab, from Embleton representing the Mt Lawley electorate, is also a first-time participant. He hopes the experience will grow his advocacy skills and provide further professional development. “I do hope to one day have a career in international relations but also to listen to other people’s stories, connecting and being involved in a like-minded community while advocating for the youth of WA,” he said. Raghda’s specific interest is international relations, noting that relationships are vital to human experience. “From a political lens, understanding Australia’s relationships with other countries while also representing our country is something I’ve always admired and aspired to pursue. The development of stronger relationships with other countries through culture, trade and shared interest is of high interest to me in today’s international system,” he explained. He believes young people are both valuable and disadvantaged, with many socioeconomic factors affecting their development. “Ensuring that young people have platforms and a voice is important. They are the next generation to lead the world, so it’s important they are equipped with the right resources and services to live a life that empowers them to reach their full potential,” he said.
