Applications are now open for 15-24 year olds to be part of an exciting new era in local government and a first for the region with the creation of the Sunshine Coast Youth Council.
It comes as Queensland Youth Week (April 10-18) is well underway, which encourages youth to make a positive contribution to the society they live in.
Young people keen to make a difference within the Sunshine Coast community while representing their peers are encouraged to apply for the two-year program that aims to provide them with the opportunity to develop skills in communication, public speaking, leadership, have a voice, raise issues, exchange ideas and learn about local government and community issues.
Sunshine Coast Council Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said the council initiative was a direct action from the Sunshine Coast Council Community Strategy 2019-2041.
“Just 15 spots are up for grabs and I anticipate they will be hotly contested,” Cr Law said.
“It would be terrific to see representation from all Divisions across the Sunshine Coast Local Government area so I encourage all aspiring leaders to apply.
“This will not only look good on their CV but equip them with vital well-rounded skills for the future.
“Our Community Strategy strongly focuses on inclusive communities and actively encouraging young people to have a say in decisions that impact them and establish ways to foster youth leadership.”
The Youth Council will foster young people’s skills in decision-making processes, while also helping them learn about communication and program development skills; discover a better understanding of the roles and functions of local government; highlight issues and exchange ideas; meet new people; and interact and learn from Sunshine Coast civic leaders.
Sunshine Coast Youth Sunshine Coast Youth Council meetings will be scheduled monthly. Each meeting will be held for approximately 1.5 hours (4.30-6pm).
Applications can be made by emailing a cover letter to commdevelopment@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au by Friday May 7. The letter should detail:
*Why you are interested in joining the Youth Council
*Your particular areas of interest
*Contact details
*Age
The Sunshine Coast Youth Council is expected to start by June.