The City of Greater Bendigo wants to hear from local young people who are interested in being part of the City of Greater Bendigo Youth Council in 2020.

Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Margaret O'Rourke said a number of the current youth councillors are retiring and the City is calling on young people who may be interested in being part of the Youth Council for the next two years to submit an Expression of Interest application.

“The Youth Council is an exciting initiative of Council to engage with local young people in the decision making process and a key action in the City’s Youth Strategy,” Cr O’Rourke said.

“The Youth Council is a diverse group of young, local people that was formed to act as an advisory and advocacy body to Council and give local young people a stronger voice in our community.

“The Youth Council report their views to the Mayor and Councillors on City plans and programs that impact on young people and represent young people at civic events and activities.

“There is close to 20,000 young people aged between 12 and 24 currently living in Greater Bendigo with this number expected to rise to 25,900 by 2036 it’s important for Council to connect with, and listen to our young people about the issues that impact on their lives.

“I encourage all interested young people to express their interest in being part of the Youth Council. Expressions of Interest are open until Thursday November 28, 2019, with Youth Councillors set to be appointed in December.”

Greater Bendigo Youth Mayor Khayshie Tilak-Ramesh said the Youth Council is an amazing  opportunity for young people who want a stronger voice in our community to meet others with similar interests and ideas, build their leadership skills and develop the knowledge and abilities to affect change. 

“The young people who get involved will develop skills and knowledge in team work, meeting processes, organising projects, public speaking, advocating for change and consulting with their peers,” Khayshie said.

Expression of Interest forms are available online at  www.yobendigo.com.au or by contacting the City of Greater Bendigo’s Youth Development Team on 5434 6092 or by email to [email protected]