Elsie Lange
When it comes to shaping policy and politics, it’s vital all parts of a community are represented and heard.
The appointment of the 2022 Sunbury Youth Advisory Council (SYAC) does just this, giving young people aged between 15 to 21 a chance to share their ideas and concerns and put forward solutions for challenges they and their peers might face.
Formed by Sunbury MP Josh Bull, the group is made up of inspiring young locals who have a lot to offer.
SYAC member Jesse Ramsay, 17, has been a member since 2019 and said he applied because he was passionate about representing young peoples’ voices in the community.
“At our last meeting we discussed what topic each member would like to focus on throughout 2022, with a range of suggestions being nominated, including climate change and mental health to youth participation in politics,” Jesse said.
“I think it’s important that young people in the electorate have an avenue to connect with government and influence policy.
“Josh Bull’s Youth Advisory Council gives us an opportunity to come together and make real progress in addressing the issues that disproportionately affect young people,” he said.
Mr Bull said the group exists because without young peoples’ voices, issues that matter to the next generation “don’t always get heard”.
“Their work and discussions will go towards helping shape future policies and they’ll play an integral role in advising me as their local MP,” Mr Bull said,
“These inspiring young people have so much to offer and are fantastic advocates for young people in the Sunbury electorate.”
