Young people in regional NSW have been given a platform to propose solutions to tackle the issues important to them, such as getting a job, transport, mental health, housing and homelessness, with applications now open for NSW's first-ever Regional Youth Taskforce.
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Minister for Regional Youth Mrs Bronnie Taylor officially opened the taskforce two weeks ago and is encouraged by the responses to date.
"As the first Minister for Regional Youth, I want young people in our regions to know that this is your chance to be heard, to champion your local causes, represent your friends and classmates, and be involved in the decisions that help to create change in your hometown," Minister Taylor said.
"We want local voices participating in this taskforce. As a government we need to listen to young people, we want to understand what services and support would help them prosper."
Mrs Taylor said the Taskforce will be made up of 18 members who will meet regularly and provide direct advice to NSW Government agencies, the Office for Regional NSW and Cabinet on state-wide policy decisions and local plans.
A sitting fee will be paid and flights and accommodation will be covered. The taskforce is expected to meet about four times a year, twice in person and twice through Skype. Meetings are likely to take place on weekends or in school holidays.
Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey urged young people who are passionate about our region and who have ideas on how to tackle local issues to apply.
"We want to see applications from everybody. It's not just about the best and brightest, firsthand experience is key here and will mean you can tell us what you think will really work for our region and the young people who live here."
Applications are open to anyone aged 12 to 24 who lives in regional NSW.
To find out more or submit an application, visit www.nsw.gov.au/RegionalYouthTaskforce.
Applications are open until 11.59pm August 5.
