General News
19 September, 2025
Interest open for Youth Parliament
EXPRESSIONS of interest have opened for the Department of the House of Representatives and the Y Australia’s National Youth Parliament 2026.
The program aims to equip youths aged 16-17 from all walks of life with the knowledge, confidence and skills to actively participate in Australia’s democratic and parliamentary system.
Member for Wannon Dan Tehan said National Youth Parliament offers hands-on learning experiences including mock parliamentary debates, workshops with political traders and real-world policy challenges.
“When young people understand how the system works, they are better equipped to hold it accountable and improve it,” he said.
“This isn’t just good for them, it’s good for the whole community.”
Youth Members will travel to Canberra for a five-day (four-night) program held across Australian Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House.
All costs associated with the program including travel and accommodation are covered by the program.
Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick said the establishment and delivery of the program was one of his major priorities as speaker.
“l am proud to be giving young Australians a brand-new opportunity to learn about civics and our parliamentary system,” he said.
“The future of Australia’s great democracy is in the hands of our young Australians and this is one way they will be able to shape it for future generations.”
The Department of the House of Representatives is working with Youth Parliament program provider Y Australia to deliver the program.
The Y has been running Youth Parliament programs across Australia for over four decades.
Y Australia chief executive officer Alexandra Ash said the provider was thrilled to partner with the Department of the House of Representatives for the initiative.
“We don’t just want young people to vote when they turn 18, we want them to understand why their vote matters, how decisions are made and how they can influence them – education in civics and democracy is key to that,” she said.
“Research shows that young Australians are increasingly disengaged from traditional politics yet remain deeply passionate about social issues.
“Civics education has been declining in curriculum focus, leaving many young people unaware of how laws are made or how parliament functions.
“This program helps close that gap by giving students real opportunities to see behind the scenes and learn how the system works.
“By investing in civics education and leadership development for young people, the National Youth Parliament aims to strengthen the democratic process itself.”
Young people are encouraged to submit an expression of interest online at nyp.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au.
No prior political experience is required, just curiosity, commitment and a desire to learn.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply as are young rural and regional Australians or those from marginalised backgrounds.