School and Government Programs

Youth Leadership Programs

  • The NSW Youth Advisory Council advises the Government on issues of concern to young people (aged 12-24) in NSW; government policies relating to young people; and youth-related programs.

  • Student Representative Councils (SRCs) are groups of students in a school elected by their fellow students. SRCs are active in most state high schools in NSW, representing students in the school and organising ways for them to participate in school life.

  • Aboriginal Student Leadership Programs are designed to encourage and train Aboriginal student leaders to participate in Department of Education and Training student leadership projects and activities.

  • Many local Councils now have Youth Councils to enable young people to have a say in services and events for young people in their local area. Contact your local Council to find out more.

  • The NSW Commission for Children and Young People advocates for the children and young people of NSW. The Commission's site contains all sorts of information, including details of the Commission's Young People's Reference Group.

  • The Young Australian Rural Network aims to accurately represent the views of young rural Australians in government and business and is regularly vocal on issues relating to rural youth in relevant national policies. Its primary function is to be a national, voluntary, apolitical, community service organisation that seeks to raise the concerns and issues of young people of rural and regional Australia.

  • The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme aims to provide young Australians with a unique, challenging and inspirational experience that increases their self-awareness, develops their teamwork and leadership skills, and creates a strong sense of community responsibility. Application is open to Australian citizens aged 16 to 23 at the time of sailing.

  • There are more than 1000 government boards and committees in NSW. The NSW Premier's Department maintains a Register of people who are interested in being appointed to Government boards and committees. Young people are encouraged to register to ensure that their interests and views are heard during decision making processes. Apply to be included on the Government Boards and Committees Register.