Young people from across the Canterbury-Bankstown region came together on Friday, 17 April for a vibrant and engaging Youth Week Education and Policy Forum and BBQ Lunch, held at the Revesby Community Centre. The event provided a valuable platform for youth to connect directly with their local representatives and contribute their perspectives on key issues shaping their future.
Hosted by Kylie Wilkinson MP, State Member for East Hills, and Zhi Soon MP, Federal Member for Banks, the forum was designed to encourage open dialogue between young people and decision-makers. Attendees had the opportunity to raise concerns, share ideas, and discuss priorities around education, policy, and community development.
A highlight of the event was the presence of special guest, the Hon. Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education and Federal Member for Blaxland. His participation added significant weight to the discussions, particularly around the future of education in Australia and the importance of youth input in shaping national policy.
The forum created an inclusive and welcoming environment, with participants engaging in meaningful conversations on topics that matter most to them—from education pathways and employment opportunities to broader social and community issues. The informal BBQ lunch further encouraged networking and relaxed interactions between attendees and MPs, breaking down barriers and fostering genuine connections.
Discussions throughout the forum highlighted several key issues that resonated strongly with young attendees. Mental health emerged as a major concern, with participants calling for greater access to support services and more open conversations within schools and communities. Socioeconomic disparities were also raised, particularly around equal access to education, employment opportunities, and resources for young people from diverse backgrounds. In addition, the growing influence of artificial intelligence sparked thoughtful dialogue, with youth expressing both excitement and concern about its impact on future careers, education systems, and ethical considerations. These discussions underscored the importance of ensuring that policy decisions keep pace with the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the next generation.
The initiative aimed to ensure that young voices are not only heard but actively considered in policy discussions. The strong turnout and enthusiastic participation reflected a growing desire among young people to be involved in shaping their communities and future.
Overall, the Youth Week forum was a successful and impactful event, reinforcing the importance of youth engagement in the political process and highlighting the value of accessible platforms where their voices can be heard.
