Council takes a new approach to engaging young people
April 28, 2016
Colac Otway Shire Council has committed to a new approach to engaging and listening to young people following a review of its Youth Council program.
Mayor Frank Buchanan said the changes aimed to make it easier for young people to have their say on civic issues.
A review of Youth Council at the end of 2015 found that students were finding it increasingly difficult to balance their Youth Council commitments with their studies and other extra-curricular activities.
"Youth Council was established more than 15 years ago and over that time has become increasingly focussed on volunteerism in our community, and also about organising and getting involved in community events," Cr Buchanan said.
"While we've had some fantastic outcomes from this, the reality is that the final few years of secondary school are very important and our young people's education is a necessary first priority.
"Council contacted all of our secondary schools and what became clear was the need for Council to change our focus to engage young people differently," he said.
Rather than hold elections for the Youth Council program, Council will work with the existing leadership groups and student representative councils nominated by schools.
"One of the key changes is that Council will go directly into the schools, during school hours, to consult students on Council projects and upcoming decisions," Cr Buchanan said.
"This will ensure that Council continues to gather valuable feedback from a broader range of local students on projects and issues that matter to them.
"We have an ongoing commitment to community engagement and our young people have really valuable ideas and insights to share about the things Council does, and we want to hear what they have to say.
"We'll also be supporting the student leadership groups at each school by providing leadership and governance training."
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400