Young people from across Western Australia are set to present their ideas for future state legislation as part of the 31st Youth Parliament program, organised by the Y WA. Fifty-nine participants have been selected to represent each of the State's electorates in the four-month program, which provides intensive training in public speaking, leadership, and parliamentary procedure.
The program combines weekly online meetings, three full-day training workshops, and a residential camp, enabling participants to collaborate on researching issues, drafting legislation, and preparing for debate on topics spanning any State Government portfolio. The group has already convened for the program's inaugural training camp, the first of three residential camps designed to build their skills and confidence.
The Youth Parliament will culminate in July, when participants take to the floor of Parliament House to debate their bills in a live chamber setting. Following the debates, 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.
Among the student representatives are Jessica Loader from Harrisdale, representing the Armadale electorate, and Ciara Sadler from Palmyra, representing Bicton. Jessica emphasised the importance of young people having a voice, noting that they are also affected by government decisions. 'Considering some of us are still in school, and what we get taught has evolved over the years, our opinions are going to be different compared to older generations,' she said. 'The school curriculum in particular has evolved significantly in terms of educating us on real, accessible Australian history. It gives us another level of awareness which I am grateful to have. It is important that we know the significant events that are happening right now, keeping us politically and socially informed.'
Jessica is particularly interested in school curricula and public health care. 'I hope to educate as many people as possible on the effects of grief and loss. I'm also committed to increasing the awareness we have on eating disorders, aiming to push back against harmful messages we are taught on how our bodies must look, or tell us that a person's health can be judged solely by their shape or what they eat,' she said.
Ciara said being part of the Y WA Youth Parliament program provides a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of issues facing the community and a platform for young people's voices to be heard. 'Young people can offer important, future-focused perspectives on pertinent issues such as climate change or the cost of living,' she said. 'Being a law student, I am interested in the justice system, especially young people's experience in the justice system. I hope that participating in the Y WA Youth Parliament will give me a better understanding of the law-making process in WA and help develop my advocacy skills. I am also passionate about arts and culture as I believe it can encourage a more inclusive and mentally well community.'
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 said, '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.'
