Are you interested in helping to shape the future of Mitchell Shire Council on important issues like mental health and youth services?
If so, get your nomination in to join the youth council. There are 12 members on the youth council, four for each ward, with fortnightly meetings, events and functions, leadership and development excursions and a leadership camp.
The main aims for youth council are to help council understand issues and problems from the perspective of young people, provide advice to council about how concerns can be addressed, develop local initiatives and programs for young people and to advocate on matters that affect young people.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Rhonda Sanderson said the youth council has worked extremely hard over the past year and it is a credit to them.
“They have been instrumental in helping us shine a light on issues facing young people,” she said.
“With more and more families moving to Mitchell Shire, it is important that we have a strong voice from the youth in our community so that their views, opinions and ideas are well-represented.
“We, as a senior council, benefit greatly from their input. Young people are the future of our community and will be at the forefront of change for many years to come.
“I sincerely thank all our youth councillors for their hard work and dedication to helping improve our community.”
Mitchell Youth Council Mayor Thomas Starkey said youth council provides many opportunities for training which can lead to future employment, volunteering and education opportunities.
“Joining youth council also allowed me to meet other young people that care about the future of our shire and also community groups that can help young people to achieve their goals.
“I encourage people to apply to join Youth Council, it’s a great chance to share your ideas and help shape our shire.”
To apply to be on youth council you need to be aged 12 to 24 years and live, work or study in Mitchell.
Mitchell Youth Council 2021-22 application forms are available at mitchellshire.vic.gov.au
Completed application forms can be emailed to youth@mitchellshire.vic.gov.au or sent to youth services coordinator — Mitchell Shire Council, 113 High St, Broadford VIC 3658.
Anyone under 18 years will need to get a parent or guardian to sign their consent. Applicants will need to provide a referee to endorse them as part of the application.
Applications close on June 13. For more information or to apply, visit mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/youthcouncil