A stronger voice
for young Australians.

In development. This is my policy proposal, not a bill introduced to Parliament or an established government council.

I’m developing a proposal for a bill to establish a National Youth Council of Australia, with youth representatives from every federal electorate.

The aim is to give young people a stronger, ongoing voice in the democratic process—not leave us outside the room when decisions affect our lives.

A central part of the proposal is a Youth Impact Statement for legislation identified as youth-focused. This would help make the effects on young people visible during consideration of a bill.

I’m also seeking sponsorship for parliamentary access to support advocacy for this proposal. That process is ongoing; sponsorship and access have not been secured.

More information about the proposal will be released through my website and media channels as the work develops.

The case for meaningful consultation

I believe young people should have a real opportunity to contribute to policy that affects us. The short 2024 Senate inquiry into the social-media minimum-age bill illustrates why I want stronger mechanisms for youth participation.

The official inquiry timeline ran from referral on 21 November to a report due on 26 November, with submissions closing on 22 November. My proposal seeks to make youth perspectives a more consistent part of parliamentary scrutiny.

Status of this work

The proposal is in development. This announcement does not indicate that a bill has been introduced, that parliamentary sponsorship has been obtained, or that an access pass has been granted. Details of the proposed council and impact-statement process will be released as they are developed.